Indianapolis, IN — A somber and tragic tone marked the early hours of Wednesday morning as first responders and community members confronted another fatal crash at a now-notorious intersection: 38th Street and Boulevard Place, directly across from Crown Hill Cemetery.
Shortly before sunrise, emergency crews were called to the scene following reports of a collision involving a pedestrian. Upon arrival, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers and medics found the victim in the roadway with traumatic injuries. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.
Details remain limited as the investigation continues, but preliminary information suggests the pedestrian was attempting to cross the intersection when they were struck by a vehicle traveling along 38th Street. The driver remained on scene and is cooperating with investigators. No arrests have been made at this time, and it’s unclear if drugs, alcohol, or speed played a role in the incident.
What makes this morning’s tragedy even more heart-wrenching is the photograph now circulating, showing a white memorial bike, also known as a ghost bike, already placed at the corner—a haunting reminder of a previous fatal crash at this very same location. That earlier incident, which claimed the life of a cyclist, had already prompted calls for improved pedestrian and bicycle safety in the area.
Despite previous outcries from residents and safety advocates, not much has changed at this busy intersection. Locals say the combination of fast-moving traffic, poor lighting, and limited crosswalk infrastructure has made this stretch of road particularly dangerous for anyone traveling on foot or by bike.
“This is heartbreaking. How many more people have to die here before something gets done?” one resident asked during a live interview with local media.
As daylight broke, live news crews were on scene throughout the morning, sharing updates on the investigation and what is currently known about the victim. At this time, the identity of the deceased has not been released, pending notification of family.
Community members have begun gathering near the crash site, placing candles and flowers beside the ghost bike, quietly mourning what they see as yet another preventable death.
Local advocacy groups are once again calling on city officials and INDOT to take immediate action to improve safety measures at the intersection. Proposals include installing pedestrian signals, reducing speed limits, increasing lighting, and adding designated bike lanes or physical barriers.
As Indianapolis continues to grapple with a growing number of traffic-related fatalities, especially among pedestrians and cyclists, many hope this latest tragedy will serve as a catalyst for lasting change. Until then, the corner of 38th and Boulevard stands as a somber symbol of loss, in desperate need of attention and action.
Authorities ask that anyone who witnessed the crash or may have dashcam footage contact IMPD or Crime Stoppers as the investigation unfolds.
Updates will be provided throughout the day as more information becomes available.
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