A late-night attempt to cross one of north Columbus’ busiest corridors turned tragic Friday when a 53-year-old woman was struck and killed on East Dublin-Granville Road. Authorities identified the victim as Florence Vitka. She was rushed to OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital with critical injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after arriving. Columbus police have launched an investigation and are asking anyone with information to come forward. The collision happened near the Interstate 71 southbound ramp along a heavily traveled stretch of State Route 161.
Just before 11 p.m., a vehicle heading east on East Dublin-Granville Road hit a pedestrian who was trying to cross the roadway, according to WSYX. The station reports that Vitka, 53, was taken from the scene to the hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
Where it happened
East Dublin-Granville Road, part of State Route 161, serves as a major east–west artery on Columbus’ north side and routinely carries steady traffic. Recent planning and zoning discussions have zeroed in on this corridor and its future. Coverage of the Dublin-Granville corridor has noted the area’s mix of strip-style commercial development, busy highway ramps and relatively few clearly protected places for people to cross on foot.
Investigation and tips
Columbus police say the Crash Investigation Unit is handling the case and reviewing the circumstances that led up to the collision. Investigators are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or who may have dash-cam or cellphone video from around that time to contact Central Ohio Crime Stoppers. Per WSYX, tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 614-461-4777.
Hospital and aftermath
Vitka was transported to OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, which lists its address as 3535 Olentangy River Road on the hospital’s contact page. According to the initial report, she was pronounced dead after arriving at the facility, and investigators are still working to determine how and why she entered the roadway at that particular spot. Police are urging anyone with information to reach out to the tip line so detectives can continue to piece together what happened.
