West Virginia State Police are currently investigating a fatal accident in Berkeley County that resulted in the death of a pedestrian on Wednesday evening. The incident took place around 6:50 p.m. on Baker Road in Martinsburg, leaving the local community in a state of shock.
The victim has been identified as 29-year-old Samuel Alberto Alomino Rivera from Martinsburg. He was walking along the right shoulder of Baker Road when he was struck by a 2016 Jeep Cherokee, driven by 53-year-old Jaime Bayliss, also from Martinsburg. Police have stated that the exact circumstances leading to the collision are still under investigation.
Emergency medical personnel responded quickly, rushing Rivera to Berkeley Medical Center for treatment. Tragically, despite the efforts to save his life, Rivera succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. Bayliss, the driver of the Jeep, was not injured in the incident and remained at the scene as authorities began their investigation.
Officials have yet to release further details regarding the conditions at the time of the crash, such as visibility or potential road hazards. It remains unclear whether factors such as speed or impairment played a role in the accident. Investigators are diligently working to piece together the events that led to the collision to determine if any charges should be filed.
The death of Rivera has heightened concerns about pedestrian safety in the area. Residents have pointed out the lack of sidewalks and adequate lighting on Baker Road, which they believe may increase the risks for pedestrians. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of shared responsibility between drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution and help prevent such tragedies.
As the investigation continues, authorities are appealing to the public for assistance. They urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has additional information to contact the West Virginia State Police. The case remains open, with officials dedicated to uncovering the full details of this tragic loss.
This tragic event has left the Martinsburg community grieving the loss of Samuel Alberto Alomino Rivera. The incident underscores the critical need for improved pedestrian safety measures and serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable dangers faced by those walking along roadways.
