Sharonville, OH — The tragic death of 87-year-old James Quick in a pedestrian collision on U.S. Route 42, near Fields Ertel Road, has left the community of Sharonville, Ohio, in mourning. The incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, May 8, 2025, when Quick, a longtime resident of the area, was struck by a 2023 Ford F-150 as he attempted to cross the busy roadway. Despite immediate efforts by emergency responders, Quick later succumbed to his injuries, marking a heartbreaking loss for his family, friends, and the local community.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP), based out of the Hamilton Post, responded to the scene just before 9:40 p.m. and initiated an investigation into the incident. While the details of the crash are still under review, early reports from the OSHP indicated that Quick was not using a designated crosswalk at the time of the collision. The driver of the Ford F-150, a 37-year-old man, was reportedly unharmed, and no signs of impairment or reckless driving have been reported.

James Quick: A Life Remembered

James Quick was known in the Sharonville community as a kind and familiar face. Born and raised in the area, Quick spent much of his life in the town and became a staple of the community. Though he was 87 years old, Quick’s active lifestyle kept him well-known to neighbors, many of whom remember him fondly as a regular walker in the neighborhood.

Quick was beloved by those who knew him, and his passing has affected many people in the community who regarded him as a friendly, caring individual. As a man of principle and integrity, he left a lasting impact on those around him, from friends and family to the broader community in Sharonville.

While he had his struggles with age and physical limitations, James Quick’s spirit remained strong. Many community members describe him as a man who maintained an optimistic attitude, constantly striving to maintain his independence and remain active, particularly through his daily walks.

Quick’s family has been left devastated by the loss. His family members expressed their grief over the tragedy, describing him as a loving father, grandfather, and friend. The family is now grappling with the painful reality of losing a beloved patriarch in such a sudden and tragic manner.

The Crash: A Sudden Tragedy

The incident occurred when James Quick was attempting to cross U.S. Route 42 near Fields Ertel Road. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s preliminary investigation, Quick was not using the designated crosswalk at the time of the collision. The area where Quick was struck is a well-traveled corridor, and its high volume of traffic, especially during rush hour, can make it a dangerous location for pedestrians.

Quick was struck by a 2023 Ford F-150 that was traveling southbound on the roadway. The driver of the truck, a 37-year-old man, did not suffer any injuries from the collision. Authorities have confirmed that the driver and a passenger were in the vehicle at the time of the incident. The collision caused significant trauma to Quick, and he was ejected from the roadway. Despite the swift response from emergency medical personnel, Quick was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Driver’s Account: No Signs of Recklessness or Impairment

The Ohio State Highway Patrol has stated that there is no indication of reckless driving, speeding, or alcohol consumption involved in the crash. Investigators have also confirmed that the driver was not distracted by a mobile device or other factors that could have contributed to the collision. The crash appears to have been an unfortunate accident, but the fact that Quick was crossing the road outside a crosswalk raises questions about pedestrian safety in the area.

The driver of the truck, who was not named publicly as of the time of this writing, has cooperated with the investigation, and no charges have been filed against him at this time. Authorities are still reviewing the evidence, including any potential surveillance footage from nearby businesses or homes that may have captured the collision.

Pedestrian Safety and the Dangers of High-Traffic Roads

The fatal crash underscores the dangers of crossing high-traffic roadways, particularly for elderly individuals. U.S. Route 42 is a major thoroughfare that runs through Sharonville, and its proximity to businesses, residential areas, and schools makes it a busy route for both vehicles and pedestrians. Pedestrian accidents, especially at night, are a growing concern across the United States, and incidents like the one involving James Quick have sparked renewed calls for better pedestrian safety measures in high-traffic areas.

Statistics show that pedestrians are significantly more vulnerable to injuries and fatalities when they are walking along roads without proper pedestrian infrastructure. In particular, elderly individuals like James Quick, who may have slower reaction times and limited mobility, are at greater risk when crossing roads outside of designated pedestrian areas. Pedestrian fatalities tend to increase at night, especially in areas where streetlights may not be as bright, and visibility is limited.

In the wake of Quick’s tragic death, residents and local advocates have called for better lighting and more pedestrian crossings along U.S. Route 42 to ensure the safety of individuals walking in the area. Some have suggested installing overpasses or underpasses for pedestrians, especially in busy areas where foot traffic and vehicle speeds often lead to dangerous conditions for those on foot.

The Aftermath: Grief and Call for Increased Safety Measures

Following the fatal collision, the community of Sharonville has rallied around James Quick’s family, offering their condolences and support during this difficult time. Neighbors have expressed their sorrow, remembering Quick as a kind and gentle man who had become an integral part of their daily lives. The loss has been felt deeply by all who knew him, and local residents have called for increased attention to pedestrian safety in the aftermath of the incident.

While it is still early in the investigation, there is growing support for initiatives to improve safety in pedestrian-heavy areas. City officials and transportation planners are being urged to take action and implement safety measures that could prevent future accidents like this one.

Statistical Data and Trends: The Rising Risk of Pedestrian Fatalities

Pedestrian fatalities are a growing issue across the United States, and they disproportionately affect elderly individuals. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian deaths have been on the rise for the past several years. In 2023, 6,500 pedestrians were killed in the United States, marking a significant increase over previous years.

Elderly individuals like James Quick are especially vulnerable in pedestrian accidents. Seniors are at higher risk of serious injury or death due to their diminished physical resilience and slower reflexes. National data shows that pedestrians over the age of 65 represent a disproportionate number of those killed in traffic-related accidents. As urbanization continues and more people walk in busy areas, improving pedestrian safety is crucial.

Moving Forward: Advocating for Pedestrian Safety

In the aftermath of the tragic death of James Quick, local advocates, families, and government officials must work together to promote safer roadways for pedestrians. Public safety campaigns focused on educating both drivers and pedestrians about the importance of safety measures could help raise awareness and reduce accidents in the future.

One of the key areas to focus on is ensuring that pedestrian infrastructure—including crosswalks, pedestrian overpasses, and proper lighting—is available in high-traffic areas. As cities like Sharonville continue to grow, they must adapt to the increasing number of pedestrians on the roads by making sure these areas are safe for everyone.

Additionally, law enforcement agencies like the Ohio State Highway Patrol will continue investigating incidents like James Quick’s death and examining the contributing factors. Authorities will also assess the effectiveness of existing pedestrian safety programs and work with local communities to ensure that future accidents can be prevented.

Conclusion: Honoring James Quick’s Memory

The tragic death of James Quick is a painful reminder of the need for better pedestrian safety measures in our communities. While the investigation into his death continues, the focus remains on ensuring that his legacy is honored through increased awareness and improvements to safety infrastructure.

As Sharonville mourns the loss of this beloved community member, the tragedy serves as a call to action for local leaders and citizens alike to prioritize the safety of pedestrians, particularly those who may be more vulnerable due to age or mobility issues. James Quick’s life, though cut short, will continue to inspire efforts to make our roads safer for everyone.

In memory of James Quick, we urge the community and authorities to take proactive steps in preventing further accidents and to ensure that pedestrian safety becomes a primary focus in the years to come.