A quiet Decatur neighborhood was shaken Tuesday morning after a tragic traffic incident claimed the life of 90-year-old Fred C. Swope, a longtime resident known for his friendly demeanor and presence in the community.
The Decatur Police Department reported that officers and firefighters were dispatched shortly before 8 a.m. to the 1800 block of 11th Street SE following reports of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle. First responders found Swope with critical injuries, and despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Coroner Jeff Chunn confirmed Swope’s passing and said his family had been notified of the heartbreaking loss.
Authorities stated that the driver involved remained at the scene and fully cooperated with the investigation. Preliminary findings suggest the collision occurred in a residential area often used by pedestrians, and no immediate evidence indicates that speed or impairment was a factor. Police are reviewing traffic camera footage, speaking with witnesses, and examining road conditions and visibility as they work to reconstruct the events leading up to the accident.
Neighbors and residents expressed deep sorrow over Swope’s death, remembering him as a kind and familiar presence in the community. Many have called for improved pedestrian safety measures, including better lighting and clearer signage, to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The Decatur Police Department emphasized the importance of caution for both drivers and pedestrians, particularly during early morning hours, and thanked bystanders who assisted at the scene. Officials stressed that the incident is a sobering reminder of how quickly accidents can occur, even in familiar surroundings.
Fred C. Swope will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, and the enduring mark he left on his neighborhood.