Charles Hilyard fatally struck in Pierce County SR 7 collision

clock Created with Sketch Beta. April 27, 2026
Charles Hilyard fatally struck in Pierce County SR 7 collision

PIERCE, WA, (April 25, 2026) – A 49-year-old woman was tragically killed early Saturday morning after being struck by a vehicle along Pacific Avenue in Pierce County, according to the Washington State Patrol (WSP).

The victim, identified as Puyallup resident Charles Hilyard, was walking in the second of two northbound lanes on State Route 7 near 104th Street shortly before 4 a.m. when a vehicle traveling northbound hit her.

Hilyard sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver involved in the collision was not injured, authorities said.

Officials confirmed that the case remains under active investigation as they work to determine the circumstances leading up to the crash.


CRASH INVESTIGATION NEEDED

Walking on American roads has become increasingly hazardous in recent years, due in part to the rise in larger vehicles such as SUVs and pickup trucks, roadway designs that favor speed, and instances of reckless driving. In 2021, pedestrian fatalities in Washington reached a record 146 before declining to 129 in 2022, according to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC).

“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, an experienced pedestrian accident attorney.

Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal, emphasized that cases like this require an independent investigation by a qualified attorney to safeguard victims’ rights.

“Having the proper resources is critical in any pedestrian accident investigation, ensuring that evidence is gathered, examined, and preserved so investigators can determine if negligence was involved,” Bond added.


WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

Pending the results of the investigation, the family of Charles Hilyard may be entitled to a wrongful death claim for the loss of love and companionship.

“The emotional toll after losing a loved one in a tragic accident can be devastating,” said Stefano Formica, Of Counsel with Bond Legal.

“We understand the challenges families face during such difficult times, and protecting their legal rights is essential. A wrongful death attorney will monitor the official investigation and work to safeguard their best interests.”


(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)


Accident Injury News' national legal analyst Candice Bond is experienced in fatal pedestrian accidents, and if you or a family member need help, she is available for a free consultation to guide you.

(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Accident Injury News can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-986-7738 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).

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