DECATUR, Ga. — A teen was killed and three others were injured while they were walking in the City of Decatur on Monday. Authorities said the pedestrians were hit in separate incidents -- just miles apart.
Kevin Valente, 16, tragically passed away after being hit by a car on East College Avenue and Commerce Drive Monday evening. Decatur Police said they are still investigating the incident but added the driver remained at the scene and is cooperating.
Valente's death happened just hours after three additional pedestrians were hit.
Police got the call about the first pedestrian hit on a sidewalk and a driveway on Candler Street Monday around 8:20 a.m. Hours later, just before 2 p.m., another person was hit at the intersection of West Ponce De Leon and West Trinity Place.
One hour later, Decatur officers then responded to the third call on Sycamore Street and East Ponce de Leon Avenue before going to the scene where Valente was killed.
Now, a local group is calling for a petition to slow drivers down.
“It’s our worst nightmare. It’s the things we’ve been warning the city of,” said April Biagioni, a member of Calm Decatur pushing for pedestrian safety, about Valente's passing. “It’s tragic. It’s a devastating loss to this community and his family."
Biagioni said there are major safety issues on Decatur streets, including dangerous drivers.
“Drivers are speeding and running lights. They’re failing to yield, they’re taking left turns on red, and they’re aggressive,” Biagioni said. “It doesn’t matter if you live a block or two from your destination; you take a serious risk every time you walk in these streets."
The City of Decatur said driver behavior and awareness are major components that must be addressed. City officials also added that there are projects in the works to make the streets safer, including a design stage where Valente was hit.
“Pedestrians matter, residents matter. This is not I-85. Proceed with caution, and know that every life is valuable and one lost is one too many,” Biagioni added.
The group has a petition they hope will raise awareness to make more improvements. To read or participate in the petition, click here.