Man Struck By Car on Detroit Avenue Crosswalk

Those who use the crosswalk at Manor Park and Detroit Avenue told Lakewood Patch just a couple weeks ago that it was “only a matter of time” before someone was hit by a car while crossing the street.

That time came on Wednesday morning, when a vehicle struck an elderly man trying to cross the busy street.

The 79-year-old resident of the Westerly Apartments was treated for a leg injury. 

“There were no serious injuries,” said Lt. Frank Eschweiler of the Lakewood Police.

Police are still investigating the incident, and no charges have yet been filed.

“If (the pedestrian) was in the crosswalk when he was struck we will make the determination (whether to charge the motorist),” said Capt. Gary Sprague.

Meanwhile, the intersection is already on the city’s radar.

This was the first reported collision — between a person and car — at that intersection.

Residents have certainly voiced their concerns over safety at the crosswalk.

Mayor Michael Summers recently told Lakewood Patch that officials will take another look at ways to improve safety at the intersection — including the addition of improved signage.

Ward 2 city councilman Tom Bullock drafted a letter to his council colleagues asking that the city examine its crosswalks at an upcoming public works committee meeting.

“Lakewood prides itself on being Ohio’s most walkable city, but that is not a status we can take for granted,” he wrote. “It should be at least as convenient for pedestrians and cyclists to get around Lakewood as for motor vehicles.”