Samuel Rife killed in Summit County pedestrian collision OH

clock Created with Sketch Beta. April 20, 2026
Samuel Rife killed in Summit County pedestrian collision OH

GREEN, OH, (April 17, 2026) – Samuel Rife, 9, was tragically killed Friday in a pedestrian accident in Green, according to the Summit County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities said the third-grader was struck by a Jeep Wrangler driven by an 81-year-old man at about 4:30 p.m. on Peachwood Way, approximately 10 miles outside Akron. Samuel was transported to Akron Children’s Hospital, where he later died.

A vigil was held Sunday night in memory of Samuel, the son of Pastor J. Harlen Rife of Greensburg United Methodist Church and Madeline Rife. He was remembered for his kindness, outgoing personality, and dedication to helping others.

A GoFundMe account has been established to support causes important to Samuel. The family has requested donations be directed to Family Support Specialists at Green City Schools.

Incident Location


FATAL PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

The Summit Metro Crash Response Team is investigating the accident.

Sadly, people on foot are being killed at an alarming rate in the United States. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, pedestrian fatalities have increased significantly compared to other traffic deaths, with an estimated 6,590 deaths reported in 2019—the highest in more than 30 years.

“Having the proper resources is essential to investigate a pedestrian accident and establish negligence,” said Candice Bond, an experienced pedestrian accident attorney and Managing Partner at Bond Legal. “Road conditions, visibility of signage, and lighting are all potential contributing factors that must be carefully evaluated. These steps are crucial to help families obtain the justice they deserve.”


WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

The family of Sam Rife may be entitled to a wrongful death claim.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to pedestrians,” said Stefano Formica, Of Counsel at Bond Legal and a national analyst for Accident Injury News. “Families of wrongful death victims may pursue compensation for loss of income, companionship, pain and suffering, funeral costs, and emotional distress after a tragic accident.”

An attorney can serve as an advocate, helping guide families through the legal process while safeguarding their rights.

“Insurance companies often try to pressure victims into accepting quick settlements for far less than the case’s true value,” Bond added. “However, an attorney will advocate strongly to ensure fair compensation and respectful treatment.”


(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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