A pedestrian was killed Wednesday morning after a high-speed crash involving multiple vehicles on East Washington Avenue near Festival Foods in Madison, according to local authorities and eyewitness accounts.
The incident was reported shortly before noon as a three-vehicle collision, with emergency dispatchers receiving the call at approximately 11:45 a.m. The crash occurred across from Festival Foods near Breese Stevens Field, leaving shattered glass and vehicle debris scattered across the roadway and nearby sidewalks for several hours.
Police said a white BMW struck the pedestrian in front of the grocery store. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene when officers arrived. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased.
Witness Bob McDonald described the collision as one of the most devastating crashes he has ever seen. He noted that traffic in the area was relatively light at the time and estimated the BMW may have been traveling between 50 and 60 mph, or possibly faster.
Madison Police Captain Kipp Hartman said preliminary observations indicate that speed was likely a contributing factor. Investigators pointed to the extensive damage and large debris field as evidence suggesting the vehicle was traveling at a significant rate of speed before impact.
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In total, three to four vehicles were involved in the crash, including several parked cars. The force of the collision spread debris across an entire block, highlighting the severity of the incident.
The driver of the BMW remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. Police confirmed the driver was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. As part of standard procedure, authorities are also examining whether alcohol or drugs played any role in the crash.
The tragedy comes just days after Madison Police launched a traffic safety campaign aimed at reducing crashes and encouraging drivers to obey posted speed limits and remain vigilant around pedestrians. The investigation remains ongoing.