ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A St. Petersburg man has died after being critically injured in a pedestrian crash Tuesday morning while attempting to cross a busy roadway in the city. Authorities confirmed that 44-year-old Robert Smith succumbed to his injuries later that night at a local hospital, following hours of emergency medical care.
The crash occurred shortly after 9 a.m. on February 3 in the 4800 block of 22nd Avenue South near 49th Street South, an area known for heavy traffic during morning hours. Investigators said Smith was walking between vehicles that were stopped at a traffic signal when he attempted to cross the road. Officials noted that he was not using a marked crosswalk at the time of the incident.
Police said a gray Jeep traveling westbound on 22nd Avenue South struck Smith as he moved into the roadway. The impact caused severe injuries, prompting an immediate emergency response. Authorities emphasized that the driver of the Jeep stopped immediately, remained at the scene, and cooperated fully with investigators.
Smith was rushed to Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital in critical condition, where doctors worked to stabilize him. Despite those efforts, officials confirmed that Smith died Tuesday night from the life-threatening injuries he sustained in the crash. His family has since been notified of his death.
The incident has prompted renewed concerns about pedestrian safety along major corridors in St. Petersburg, particularly in areas without designated crosswalks. Police reminded residents that crossing outside of marked pedestrian areas significantly increases the risk of serious injury or death, especially during peak traffic times when visibility and reaction time are limited.
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing, and no charges have been announced at this time. Authorities said they will continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident, including traffic patterns and roadway conditions. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information is encouraged to contact local law enforcement as the case remains open.
