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Charlottesville Police: Investigation Finds Poor Lighting, Lack of Pedestrian Signals in Fatal Elliott Avenue Crash; No Evidence of Driver Impairment

Charlottesville Police: Investigation Finds Poor Lighting, Lack of Pedestrian Signals in Fatal Elliott Avenue Crash; No Evidence of Driver Impairment

Photo: Saga Communications


CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Charlottesville Police have concluded an investigation into the October 3 fatal pedestrian accident on Elliott Avenue, in which Mamawa Simai was struck and killed while crossing in a marked, zebra-striped crosswalk.

According to a statement from the City of Charlottesville, the incident occurred around 7:30 PM in a poorly lit area with no signage or flashing lights to indicate a pedestrian crossing.

Matthew Kozub, the driver involved, remained on the scene and called 911 immediately following the collision. Ms. Simai was transported to UVA Medical Center, where she was pronounced deceased.

The city’s statement noted that there is no evidence that speed, alcohol, drugs, or cellphone use contributed to the accident. Mr. Kozub has been charged with failing to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk, a violation under Virginia Code Section 46.2-924. He was served with a permitted warrant, and his court date is set for November 8 at 9:00 AM.

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