Statement from Mayor Cherelle L. Parker on Fatal Car Accidents Involving a Bicyclist and Pedestrians Last Evening in Three Incidents Citywide

PHILADELPHIA - Every death caused by a vehicle in Philadelphia is a tragedy. Philadelphia police are currently investigating three separate car crashes involving a bicyclist and two pedestrians last night, which took place in Center City, Kensington and East Germantown. The accidents left two persons dead and one person critically injured.

I am deeply saddened by each of the incidents, the loss of life and the injuries suffered.

For years, I have strongly supported proactive measures to ensure the safety of pedestrians and cyclists in our city - like the expansion of the Automated Speed Enforcement camera program, coming to Broad Street. When I served in Harrisburg and City Council, I also championed the installation of speed cameras on Roosevelt Boulevard, working with colleagues such as PA Rep. John Taylor, Rep. Mike Driscoll and others - an action that subsequent data revealed to have saved lives. It was a critical part of the city's Vision Zero strategy. I did this work after meeting Latanya Byrd, a courageous woman who lost her niece and three nephews in a horrific accident on Roosevelt Boulevard. I take traffic safety very seriously - and very personally - as does my entire Parker administration. We'll continue that work every day.