New Bedford is once again in mourning after a man was struck and killed by a vehicle Friday evening, marking the city’s second deadly pedestrian crash in just two days. The tragic incident has raised fresh concerns about road safety and left residents shaken as the new year begins with back-to-back losses.
According to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, the victim was identified as Robert Randall, 67, a longtime New Bedford resident. Randall was hit by a vehicle around 5 p.m. at the busy intersection of Route 6 and Pleasant Street. Emergency crews rushed to the scene and transported him to a nearby hospital, but despite their efforts, Randall later died from his injuries.
Officials said the driver involved in the crash remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. At this time, authorities have not announced any arrests or charges. The exact cause of the crash has not yet been released, and the investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine what led to the fatal collision.
Randall’s death came just one day after another deadly pedestrian incident rocked the city. Early Thursday morning, 33-year-old Nicolassa Ventura Colaj, also a New Bedford resident, was struck and killed by a vehicle shortly after leaving a New Year’s church service on Acushnet Avenue. That loss deeply affected the community, especially those who knew Colaj through church and local gatherings.
Unlike Friday’s crash, the driver involved in Thursday’s incident fled the scene, prompting an urgent search by police. On Friday, New Bedford police announced they had located and seized an SUV believed to be connected to Colaj’s death. Authorities have not yet said whether an arrest has been made, but the investigation into the hit-and-run is continuing.
With two pedestrian deaths in such a short time, many residents are calling for greater awareness and safety on city streets. As investigators continue their work, both families are left grieving sudden and heartbreaking losses. Anyone with information related to either crash is urged to contact New Bedford police as the community seeks answers and healing during this difficult time.
