(UPDATE: 9:30 p.m.: Pedestrian Vaughn Hahn, 87, died at UMMC late this afternoon, according to State Police. The driver is identified as David Johnston, 55, of 96 W. Main St. , Le Roy. No charges have been filed, but there is a criminal investigation in progress. The State Police ask any witnesses to come forward and call 344-6200.)
A Stafford man who was struck by a car while standing on the shoulder of Main Street Road has a chance to live after emergency medical personnel began CPR as soon as they arrived at the accident scene.
When Mercy EMS first arrived, the man was reportedly not breathing and did not have a pulse. Mercy Flight was canceled, but moments later requested to return to the scene.
The victim's name has not been released, but State Police say he is in serious condition at UMMC.
"We're in the process of reconstructing the accident, but it appears at this time that the operator of the vehicle drifted onto the shoulder and struck the pedestrian who was standing on the shoulder for an unknown reason," said Sgt. Sam Taglienti.
The driver has not been identified. He was taken two hours after the accident to Stafford Town Court for further questioning, where a Trooper said no arraignment was planned at that time.
Neighbors said the victim lives alone and doesn't drive. He often waits on the shoulder of Route 5 for the bus. He is also described as a beekeeper.
Taglienti said it appeared the pedestrian was hit by the side of the car.
"It was more of a glancing rather than head-on type of collision with the pedestrian," Taglienti said.
The victim was likely transported by ground ambulance to UMMC rather than Mercy Flight because patients cannot be taken by air during active CPR procedures.
I just want to compliment the
I just want to compliment the emergency responders on their effort today. While Mr. Hahn ultimately succumbed to his injuries, these dedicated people gave him a chance to live that he wouldn't have had otherwise. Everybody on scene today was very professional and very dedicated to the task of helping this man and then investigating what happened.
What a Tragedy Howard. Rest
What a Tragedy Howard. Rest In Peace Mr. Hahn, God has called you to join him. It seems you lived a long life, and have a higher calling. To the family, We are very sorry for your loss. To Mr. Johnston, we are also very sorry for you too, having this happen. Find Peace in knowing, it was an unfortunate accident. To the EMT's, Thank You for your Unwavering Dedication to your community. God Bless All of You.
Wow, Karen. Well said.
Wow, Karen. Well said.
I disagee with Karen's
I disagee with Karen's comment regarding Mr. Johnston. She has no clue what Mr Johnston was doing when he swerved and hit someone. I will not speculate on his condition. However, I drive RT 5 every day and cannot tell you how annoying that drive is. I constantly see people swerving all over the road on their cell phones and their speeds ranging from 40-60. It is the most annoying stretch of road I have ever driven on. Has anyone ever heard of cruise control? Good lord, pay attention to the darn road and put dumb phone down...you could just kill somebody and can your conscience handle that.
Thank You Mardell..
Thank You Mardell..
Where did I say HE had a cell
Where did I say HE had a cell phone? I said I see people driving and swerving because they are on their cell phones...did you not read the part where this person swearved and struck the man on the side of the road. Yes, I have road rage because I want people to pay attention to driving rather than playing with stuff in their vehicles. EYEROLL. Ha, way to edit your post Karen...you wouldn't like to look foolish now would you. And I find it interesting that you call people a coward for not wanting to post under their real name but you edit your posts to hide ridiculous comments...seems cowardly to me...but what do I know.