PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — Authorities have identified the pedestrian killed in a recent traffic crash in Portland’s Hazelwood neighborhood as 59-year-old Don A. Edney. Edney, who used a wheelchair, died after being struck by a car while crossing Northeast Glisan Street near NE 122nd Avenue on the evening of October 29.
According to the Portland Police Bureau, investigators determined that Edney had been attempting to cross Glisan Street when he was hit by a passing vehicle. It remains unclear whether he was using a marked crosswalk at the time of the collision. The impact left Edney with critical injuries, and he was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he died the following day.
Police say the driver remained at the scene and fully cooperated with responding officers. At this time, no citations or arrests have been made in connection with the incident. Investigators continue to review evidence, including witness statements and any available traffic camera footage, to determine the exact circumstances that led to the crash.
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The area around Northeast Glisan and 122nd Avenue has long been recognized by city officials and safety advocates as one of Portland’s most hazardous corridors for pedestrians, particularly for those with mobility challenges. The intersection is part of Portland’s “High Crash Network,” a list of streets where the city is prioritizing safety improvements due to the frequency of severe or fatal crashes.
Residents and local transportation groups have repeatedly called for better lighting, safer crossings, and reduced vehicle speeds in this part of East Portland. Many have noted that long stretches between crosswalks make it difficult for people using wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers to cross safely.
While the investigation is ongoing, Edney’s death adds to a troubling trend of rising pedestrian fatalities in the city. As of this fall, Portland has recorded dozens of pedestrian deaths in 2025, underscoring ongoing concerns about traffic safety and infrastructure equity across neighborhoods east of 82nd Avenue.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident to contact the Portland Police Traffic Investigations Unit.
As the community mourns the loss of Don Edney, safety advocates continue to stress the importance of making Portland’s streets safer for everyone — whether they walk, roll, or drive.
