Pedestrian Killed After Being Hit by Semi-Truck and SUV in D.C.

At KBD Attorneys, we cover serious accidents to raise public awareness, promote road safety, and advocate for the families affected by these devastating incidents. On Monday evening, June 24, 2025, tragedy struck in the 2800 block of New York Avenue NE in Washington, D.C., when a pedestrian was fatally struck by two vehicles—a semi-trailer truck and a Chevrolet Suburban.

According to a report from DC News Now via MSN, the victim was identified as 39-year-old Sierra Nichole Smith. D.C. police said she was struck around 9:30 p.m. and was found deceased at the scene. The fatal incident underscores the growing danger pedestrians face in busy corridors, particularly near high-speed thoroughfares such as New York Avenue.

What Happened?

The preliminary investigation by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) revealed that the semi-trailer truck was traveling eastbound on New York Avenue when Smith reportedly ran into the roadway and stumbled. She fell directly in front of the truck and was pinned underneath as the vehicle continued driving. Tragically, the driver of the semi-truck did not stop immediately. Smith was later dislodged from under the truck and was subsequently hit by the Chevrolet Suburban traveling behind the semi.

Both drivers reportedly remained at the scene and cooperated with the ongoing investigation. Authorities have not released details about potential charges, but the crash remains under investigation.

Pedestrian Fatalities Are On the Rise

This case is heartbreaking, and unfortunately, it’s not an isolated incident. Across the country, pedestrian deaths have increased significantly over the past decade. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 7,000 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in 2022 alone—an increase of over 80% from 2010. Many of these deaths occur in urban areas like Washington, D.C., where vehicles share the roads with foot traffic.

Several risk factors converge in areas like New York Avenue:

• High-speed traffic

• Limited pedestrian infrastructure

• Poor nighttime visibility

• Heavy truck activity

• Lack of crosswalks or pedestrian signals

In D.C., these dangers are particularly pronounced in corridors where commercial trucks and commuters flood the roadways, especially at night.

The Dangers of Semi-Trucks and Urban Roadways

Semi-trucks pose a unique risk to pedestrians. These massive vehicles:

• Require longer stopping distances

• Have larger blind spots

• Are more difficult to maneuver

• Can cause catastrophic injuries or death on impact

In this case, it’s believed that the pedestrian stumbled and fell into the path of the truck, suggesting a tragic misstep. But even if the incident was sudden, truck drivers operating in urban environments must exercise a heightened level of caution, especially during nighttime hours.

Additionally, the fact that Smith was also hit by a Chevrolet Suburban raises concerns about following distances, visibility, and reaction time by other drivers on the road.

How These Accidents Impact Families

The sudden loss of a loved one in a pedestrian accident is a trauma no family should have to endure. In cases like this, the grief is compounded by unanswered questions:

• Could the truck have stopped sooner?

• Were safety precautions followed?

• Was the roadway adequately lit and marked?

• Could better infrastructure or signage have saved a life?

These are the kinds of questions that KBD Attorneys investigates on behalf of families. When a pedestrian is killed, it’s not just about what happened—it’s about why it happened, and whether someone could have done more to prevent it.

In wrongful death cases, families may be entitled to compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses

• Loss of income or support

• Emotional distress and grief

• Pain and suffering of the deceased before death

• Loss of companionship

Our job is to get answers—and ensure that tragedies like this lead to accountability and, ideally, systemic change.

Pedestrian Rights in Washington, D.C.

Under Washington, D.C. law, pedestrians have specific rights and protections, especially when they are using crosswalks or walking along the roadway in the absence of sidewalks. However, drivers are still required to exercise due care to avoid hitting pedestrians, even in unexpected circumstances.

If a driver fails to keep a proper lookout or doesn’t reduce speed when pedestrians are likely to be present, they may be held legally liable—regardless of whether the pedestrian made a sudden movement into the street.

D.C.’s “modified comparative negligence” rule also means that a victim can recover damages even if partially at fault, so long as they were not the primary cause of the incident. Every case depends on its facts—and that’s why a thorough investigation is key.

KBD Attorneys: Standing Up for Pedestrian Victims and Their Families

At KBD Attorneys, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating pedestrian accidents can be—especially those involving trucks and SUVs. We represent families throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, and the surrounding region in wrongful death claims, truck accidents, and other serious injury cases.

Our legal team will work closely with:

• Accident reconstruction experts

• Medical professionals

• Investigative journalists

• Insurance specialists

…to uncover what really happened, determine who was at fault, and help families secure justice.

We also advocate for better pedestrian protections, including stronger city planning, traffic calming measures, and increased awareness about large vehicles in urban environments.

What to Do If You’ve Lost a Loved One in a Pedestrian Accident

If you’ve lost a loved one after they were struck by a vehicle, you may feel overwhelmed, confused, or unsure where to turn. You’re not alone. Here are steps you should consider:

1. Request the police report and any available surveillance footage.

2. Preserve evidence—photos, witness statements, and vehicle details.

3. Document the impact—funeral costs, emotional harm, and loss of support.

4. Consult an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer to understand your rights.

You have a limited window to file a wrongful death lawsuit, and the sooner an attorney begins their investigation, the stronger your case may be.

Final Thoughts: Honoring Sierra Nichole Smith

We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Sierra Nichole Smith. Her death is a devastating loss—and one that highlights the need for improved safety, awareness, and accountability on D.C. roadways.

No one should lose their life because of a momentary misstep—or a truck that couldn’t stop in time. Whether it’s better lighting, safer speed limits, or improved training for drivers of commercial vehicles, there is always more we can do to prevent another tragedy like this.

Contact KBD Attorneys Today

If you’ve been affected by a pedestrian accident, or lost someone in a crash involving a semi-truck or SUV, contact KBD Attorneys today. Our D.C. legal team will listen to your story, explain your options, and fight for the justice your family deserves.

We offer free consultations, so contact us today if you need help.
Serving clients in Washington, D.C., Maryland and beyond