Authorities in Warsaw are investigating a tragic pedestrian accident that claimed the life of 48-year-old David Gwaltney early Friday morning. The incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. on Zimmer Road, where emergency crews responded within minutes after receiving reports of a man struck by an SUV in a marked crosswalk. The sudden loss has left the Albion and Warsaw communities shaken as details continue to unfold.
According to the Warsaw Police Department, Gwaltney had been walking westbound through a clearly marked crosswalk when an SUV traveling southbound struck him. First responders immediately began life-saving measures at the scene, but despite their rapid efforts, Gwaltney was pronounced deceased before he could be transported to a hospital. The driver of the SUV was not injured, and officers noted that the collision occurred during the early morning hours when visibility can often be challenging for both drivers and pedestrians.
Investigators continue to examine the circumstances leading up to the crash. Police say their review will include roadway conditions, the movement of both the pedestrian and the vehicle, and any other contributing factors present at the time of the collision. So far, no information has been released regarding potential citations or charges, as the case remains active. Authorities emphasize that they aim to fully reconstruct the sequence of events to determine exactly what happened in the crosswalk.
The incident has renewed conversations about crosswalk safety throughout Warsaw. Officials are reminding pedestrians to use extra caution when crossing roadways, even in clearly marked areas. At the same time, authorities stress that drivers must remain vigilant, slow down near intersections, and be prepared for unexpected pedestrian movement—especially during early morning hours when lighting and weather can impact visibility. Safety advocates note that both pedestrians and drivers share responsibility for preventing similar tragedies.
Community members have expressed deep sorrow over Gwaltney’s passing, remembering him as someone connected to many in Albion and the surrounding areas. Friends and family are grieving the sudden loss, while police urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash to come forward. Even small details, investigators say, can help piece together a more accurate understanding of what led to the fatal collision. Officials are reviewing traffic camera footage, interviewing potential witnesses, and analyzing any available vehicle data.
As the investigation continues, the Warsaw Police Department assures the public that updates will be released once verified. For now, the focus remains on uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the incident and supporting the family and loved ones of David Gwaltney. The tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the need for awareness, caution, and shared responsibility at every crosswalk.
