A West Chester University student was struck by a vehicle and later died early Sunday, April 12, in a crash just blocks from campus, shaking the tight-knit college town. The collision happened on South High Street near Union Street at about 1:30 a.m. The student was taken to Paoli Hospital, where they later died. The Golden Ram community is reeling, and the university has reminded students that counseling resources are available.
West Chester Borough officers were dispatched to the 300 block of South High Street near Union Street after reports that a vehicle had struck a pedestrian, according to 6abc. The outlet reports that the pedestrian was transported to the hospital and later died. The station also noted that it was not immediately clear whether charges would be filed.
Police and university response
In a letter shared with CBS News Philadelphia, Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Jasmine H. Buxton wrote, "We are deeply saddened about this tragedy," and urged students to seek support from campus resources. CBS reported that West Chester police have identified a driver and are continuing an active investigation into the crash.
High Street safety work
South High Street has been the focus of a multiyear safety improvement effort, with PennDOT and borough contractors installing new signals, pedestrian countdown timers, curb extensions and high-visibility crosswalks aimed at reducing vehicle-pedestrian collisions, as outlined on West Chester University. Local officials and campus advocates say engineering changes can reduce risk, but collisions like this underscore the need for continued attention to street design and enforcement.
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and additional details have not been released. The university confirmed the student's death in a brief statement, NBC10 Philadelphia reported. West Chester University has directed students who need support to its counseling center during business hours.
