Campus

Student hit, killed by car on Fee Lane

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Ryan Dorgan | IDS

A bouquet of flowers lay along Fee Lane on Wednesday evening just hours after the accident that killed sophomore Peter Duong.

POSTED AT 03:26 PM ON Sep. 9, 2009 | PRINT | Email | SHARE | COMMENTS (132)

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IDS Reports | Courtesy photo

Peter Duong

UPDATE:

IU Police Department Lt. Craig Munroe confirmed no witnesses reported reckless behavior from the student who drove the car that killed sophomore Peter Duong on Wednesday.

However, the driver was cited for driving with a suspended license, which was the product of an unpaid insurance bill.

โ€œHe might have not even known his license was suspended,โ€ Munroe said.

Duong is believed to have died from a head injury, Munroe said.

Duong got off work at Gresham Food Court at Foster Quad shortly before the accident occurred. He crossed Fee Lane toward McNutt Quad, and then started to cross Fee Lane again back toward Foster, said Munroe. Munroe did not know why he re-crossed the street.

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An IU student was killed Wednesday after being hit by a car while crossing Fee Lane.

Sophomore Peter Duong, 19, from Terre Haute, was taken to Bloomington Hospital shortly after 2:30 p.m. and pronounced dead.

Duong was crossing east on Fee Lane when he was hit by a sedan traveling southbound. The collision occurred adjacent to the McNutt Quad bus stop.

The IU Police Department was investigating the scene and talking to witnesses.
Scattered down the southbound side of Fee Lane were the studentโ€™s shoes, hat and backpack.

IU spokesman Larry MacIntyre said President Michael McRobbie and the administration will take a closer look at the police report to see if there are any safety issues that need to be addressed.

Freshman Grace Heaney said she was about to cross 13th Street between McNutt Quad and its south parking lot when she looked up and saw the accident as Duongโ€™s shoe flew toward her.

โ€œI didnโ€™t realize how bad it was until I saw the blood,โ€ Heaney said.

While cars stopped and people gathered around the accident, Heaney said she had to
walk away after witnessing the accident.

โ€œI remember the driver looked horrified, clasping his hands over his face,โ€ Heaney said.
Freshman Jack Masterson also witnessed the event while walking north on Fee Lane, about 100 feet south of the accident.

โ€œThe most stinging image in my mind was his shoes flying what was maybe 40 feet in the air,โ€ Masterson said.

The driver of the vehicle, who is also a 19-year-old IU student, was taken home by IUPD officers after collecting some belongings out of his car before it was taken away as evidence.

Fee Lane, a major pathway for campus traffic, was closed between 13th and 17th streets for more than an hour.

Immediately before the accident occurred, second-year graduate student Christine Carmichael was driving about 30 feet behind the vehicle that hit Duong, she said.

โ€œI looked up, the car stopped and all this stuff just flew up in the air,โ€ Carmichael said.

After stopping and getting out of her car, Carmichael went to where the accident occurred. She said a man in an IU service truck also got out of his car with a first aid kit and checked Duongโ€™s pulse.

She said Duong laid motionless on the street. Police tried to revive him, Carmichael said, and paramedics transferred him to an ambulance.

Later in the evening, flowers were placed on the curb in remembrance of Duong.

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Posted by Alumna at 2:8 PM on Sep 16, 2009 | Report this comment

This is absolutely tragic but agreed it was bound to happen. Students step out without looking, walk on a do not walk sign, and will step right in front of cars. Why would a crosswalk change anything? Students misuse the ones they already have available to them.

Posted by Graduate at 2:0 PM on Sep 16, 2009 | Report this comment

A majority of the traffic and safety problems would be fixed if students would remember what they learned in kindergarten. Look both ways, and wait for the signal. Almost EVERY problem I've had driving through campus has been because of some arrogant student from Jordan crossing illegally while listening to their Ipod, distracted students talking on their cellphone in the middle of the street, or students running late and ignoring all safety. While this death is tragic. Spending money for crosswalks is not the answer. Another stop sign and crosswalk will NOT help traffic. It will make it worse. If college educated students/adults would remember to pay attention and not try to skirt the rules of the road, these things would happen.

Posted by sam at 9:20 PM on Sep 14, 2009 | Report this comment

I lived in Foster Shea last year and crossed over Fee Lane hundreds of times, just like the thousands of Northwest Neighborhood residences. This accident, while terribly tragic, was bound to happen sooner or later. The real question is, how many more accidents have to happen before the University changes something? We're all waiting.

Posted by CJ at 9:8 AM on Sep 14, 2009 | Report this comment

I think it would help if not just anyone who's willing to shell out the cash could get a parking pass. Shouldn't be able to get a parking pass until junior year. It would cut down on traffic and congestion. Stick some more crosswalks out there, a few extra lights, and maybe a couple more stop signs. Close a few of the roads directly on campus to vehicular traffic during certain hours of the day. Also, IU should spend more time enforcing traffic laws than writing parking tickets; this goes for both drivers who speed and students who feel like they can cross the street where and whenever they please. Hand out some speeding and jay walking tickets and watch the situation improve. But then again, I doubt that's ever going to happen. It would cut into the big bucks IU pulls in from parking stickers, tickets and metered lots.

Posted by anonymous at 2:19 AM on Sep 14, 2009 | Report this comment

It's hard for me to read this story and not hate the driver because Peter was one of my closest friends. But I hope that rather than attacking the driver's actions or Peter's, people take time to recognize that this was a very tragic event. It's so upsetting to read the insensitivity in the comments from people who think what Peter did was stupid. He was somebody's son, somebody's friend.. MY friend, and it would be greatly appreciated if people kept that in mind when commenting.

Posted by instructor at 3:25 AM on Sep 12, 2009 | Report this comment

What we need along with more crosswalks are stop signs. What's the use of a crosswalk when the drivers do not stop? In Europe, crosswalk means complete stop for drivers, if a pedestrian is about to cross. I cross the streets in Bloomington every day, and every time I am at the cross walk, I have to wait until the cars are gone, because no one stops. So I could as well jaywalk... In Europe, one gets a ticket for jaywalk. It is an offense equivalent to overrunning the stop sign! I would change the laws and traffic regulations a bit, This way, it makes not much sense and results in tragedies like Peter's.

Posted by anonymous at 1:10 AM on Sep 11, 2009 | Report this comment

What happened was absolutely tragic. I never knew Peter, but he was best friends with a friend of mine. And it is rumored that the driver went to a high school in my area. I know a lot of students, parents, etc. are commenting on who is at fault and what should be done to prevent accidents from happening, but the reality is, it was an accident. Peter, the driver, and both families are in my prayers.

Posted by Krista Rugenstein at 12:21 AM on Sep 11, 2009 | Report this comment

I don't know who this C is but as you have the right to your own opinions I would appreciate it if you watched the way you phrased them!! The student that was killed was a very dear friend of mine! I knew him since high school, I went to church with him, I went to prom with him, and I loved him dearly!! It was never said whose fault it was and I feel no anger towards the driver and just for your information the times that I crossed the street with Peter he would look both ways twice!!! Please watch the way you talk and consider not only the drivers and his family's feelings but also Peter's family! I pray that they don't see what you wrote here!!

Posted by Freshman Father at 9:7 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

As a father of a freshman student, I'm incredulous that to date, the IU Bloomington website still carries no information about Peter Duong who was accidentally killed crossing Fee avenue yesterday. It sure feels like censorship. Thank you for IDS to actually provide information on this tradgedy. My daughter called us very shaken by the accident as she was on the scene 10 mins after it happened. How many other accidents have occurred on this street or around campus and have not been reported? As parents living 600 miles away from our daughter, we have a right to know that the school is doing everything in their power to provide a safe, secure learning environment for all students, faculty and employees. This appears to be a horrible accident that could have been avoided- buses, cars, pedestrians and bikes are not meant to share the same road. What is the University doing to address this antiquated transportation design that puts people at risk every day? I want to know that IU is about finding solutions and not glossing over inconvenient truths. My thoughts and prayers to Peter Duong and his family.

Posted by Kevin Ruble at 9:1 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

It's sad that so many people don't bother to learn the laws of the state they're in: http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title9/ar21/ch17.html Not to mention Bloomington Municipal Code: http://bloomington.in.gov/code/_DATA/TITLE15/Chapter_15_60_MISCELLANEOUS_TRAFFI/15_60_050_Pedestrians_.html What really irks me is what someone said earlier: "because according to the laws of most states.." This is NOT 'most states'. This is Indiana. It has clearly defined laws which are to be adhered to. And to whoever suggested to bikers that are on the sidewalk avoid zipping around pedestrians: Bikers are not to be on the sidewalk in the first place. It is against the law. Instead of telling them to be careful, you should be telling them to get off the sidewalk.

Posted by Lynette Shotts at 8:52 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

What a tragedy. Be kinder to people, love each other a little more. Life is so short.

Posted by concerned citizen at 7:48 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

What a tragedy. In what kind of way can this death not be meaningless? How many crosswalks are available on Fee? How might we start a grass roots effort to improve pedestrian safety?

Posted by a mom at 6:54 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Dear Random WHY? I would be ashamed if I was your mother for you to strike out like that.

Posted by student at 5:55 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Guys it was an accident. Things happen. And a license can easily be suspended without the drivers knowledge. Im sure both people are at fault here. My prayers go out to both familys

Posted by My Issue at 3:45 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Northsider that is not the issue as to why he had no drivers licence as you said he PROBLEY DID NOT KNOW..to me that is a problem and I do hope it is looked into. I am sorry but myself and my 2 kids walk, ride bikes, and drive in this town 365 days a year and sorry but we dread when school starts back up. I am not putting all the blame on the driver so far I have not heard the speed he was going if he was texting tuning to another music channel trying to get somewhere alittle to fast but I have only seen the wrong this young man done and as I read it seems students are doing it and will continue as I saw with in hours there is always fault the ones dodging traffic all over bloomington and the ones driving like they are the only ones on the road.

Posted by Hong at 3:39 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Never let the tragedy happen again!! IU drivers, time for us to review the manual again.

Posted by pedestrian at 3:29 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

According to Mr. Hargrove, the appropriate motorist response to a pedestrian waiting to cross at a crosswalk is to continue driving; the motorist is only required to stop if the pedestrian is already crossing (in other words, if the car would actually hit the pedestrian if it didn't stop). It's really no wonder, then, that crosswalks are ineffective, because they put pedestrians in the position of needing to jaywalk or else never be able to get across the street. For all those motorists who are so hostile toward pedestrians, just imagine what it would be like if all of those hundreds and thousands of people were in cars instead of on foot--imagine just how much more congested the roads would be. This campus can't function without foot traffic, and don't forget that just because you are in a car doesn't mean that you are more entitled--or on your way to somewhere more important--than someone on foot. Just think of them as one less person with whom you're competing for a parking space.

Posted by Prayers for family at 3:21 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

The Duong family has made funeral arrangements for their son Peter Duong, an IU student who was hit and killed by a car on Wednesday. The viewing from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Debaun Funeral Home, 85 E. Springhill Dr. (7th and Springhill) in Terre Haute. The funeral will be at 2 p.m. on Sunday at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 2405 S. Seventh St. Terre Haute.

Posted by Aric at 3:18 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

On Fee Lane, the only crosswalks are near Kelley to the south and Briscoe to the north...there's no choice but to jaywalk unless you want to go a half mile out of your way. But come on, we all know it would make no difference. Drivers never pay attention to crosswalks anyways and just drive right through them. Just go down to 10th Street near the library and watch that one as evidence.

Posted by Just stop at 3:17 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Omega I totally agree with everything you said. I live very close to the campus and it is very scary trying to watch the road and making sure no one walks in front of me I am a mother and always worry about small kids running out but down near the campus it is adults not children and they need to respect the crosswalks and be careful and please respect this young man so many were walking right were he died within hours it was so sad.

Posted by Northsider at 3:12 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

The man driving the car had a suspended license due to an insurance issue. He had a license on his person and was likely unaware his license had been suspended. The Terre Haute paper states clearly the driver could not avoid the pedestrian who walked into his path. Let the facts speak for themselves and let us mourn the loss of this wonderful young man who made a terrible terrible mistake.

Posted by Omega at 3:6 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Alpha, you did not get my post at all. First of all I am 32, with 2 kids, and an IU employee. I actually drive a 10 year old Civic, but nice guess. I drive safely on campus since I know how crazy IU pedestrians can be, being an alum as well I am quite familiar with the campus and traffic issues. Students cross the street anywhere they can. The point I was trying to make was that IU students are so apathetic toward this tragedy that they literally jaywalk 20 feet from where this young man died. There is something wrong with that. I agree with the poster that says there should be a light at the intersection just after this bus stop. However, will this stop students from jaywalking wherever they please? I doubt it. Students need to understand that they are not invincible and that there are to many people around here that do go 60 down Fee lane as you stated. Defensive walking should be practiced by all students, because only bad things can happen otherwise.

Posted by hello students at 2:52 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

http://www.wthitv.com/dpp/news/indiana/IU_student_struck_by_car_on_campus_killed_20090909_2852106 I was watching 3 news crews right down there and with in a hour the street was full of students crossing the road do not let this young man die in vain and do not say something needs to change but continue to do it what wait until the next student dies then maybe you will learn. I am in shock watching the Indy and Louisville news and seeing all the students dodging the cars to cross the road..For now walk to the crosswalk for God sakes. http://www.fox59.com/wxin-pedestrian-struck-iu-090909,0,7343379.story

Posted by Wyatt at 2:33 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Every day when I walk to my office I see someone flying down one of the roads around campus, whether it be 10th, 3rd, Woodlawn, or Jordan Ave. I think people need to realize that there is a large number of pedestrians here, and that they can't drive like they're in Chicago, New York, or New Jersey. For those of you who are implying that this is the pedestrian's fault I'd like to point out that the speed limit is 25 or 35 mph on Fee La. If you drive the speed limit and are a cautious driver there should be no problem avoiding accidents like this. My heart goes out to both the victim and the driver, but I hope that this is a lesson to all of you who think you can drive around Bloomington like its the Ryan Expressway.

Posted by Kris at 2:18 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

I am so sad to hear this and hope GOD has his hand around Peters family at this horrible time...The father of Peter Duong is a teacher at IU school of medicine in Terre Haute.

Posted by Carly Brooke Rasner at 2:12 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

As soon as I heard of the incident, on my way to teach, I was stunned. The first thing I had my students do was close their eyes and take a moment of silence to remember the innocent, young man who in an instant was struck by a vehicle. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. I have no idea who he was but I am sure he was a wonderful human being. My brother will take good care of you up there Duong. Rest in Peace and with the most sincerity in my soul...Namaste

Posted by IU MOM at 2:4 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

My thoughts and prayers are with the IU students and the victims family and friends.

Posted by ? at 1:57 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

I am saddened to hear this but it does not surprise me it is very dangerous in alot of places in Bloomington I will not even allow my 19yr old to ride a bike because of the speeding cars. I also read the driver had no licence which I hope is untrue not that is was all his fault if he had no business behind the wheel of a car then he was disregarding the law not only to all the IU students but ALL of Bloomington residents who live here 365 days a year

Posted by Cali Kid at 1:49 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

I have to agree 100% with "Brady Hargrove." Though his words at this time may seem/be insensitive, he is correct all the way. I'm from Socal, and when I came to IU a few years ago one of my first concerns about driving here was the โ€œpedestrian problemโ€. People here at IU cross the street anytime anywhere with little or no regard to the several thousand pound piece of steel coming at them. When it's car VS. human, it doesn't matter who has the "right of way" because the car is gonna win every time. With that said; Drivers should take this into account when driving at or around IU. When driving you should be completely tuned in to your surroundings. Be aware of any pedestrian on the street, or sidewalk. I am sorry that this has happened to our University, but I honestly am surprised this is the first time. Both drivers and pedestrians need to wise up. As for the question of "why our buses don't have the stop sign on them?" well those are for buses carrying little kids who at anytime will dart out into the street. Those are kids who don't know any better, WE as "ADULTS" should.

Posted by Alum at 1:29 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Re: student - having a suspended license does not automatically make a person liable for an accident. It means that they broke a law, but not necessarily that they were responsible for this accident. In order for the driver to be liable for this accident, they would have to have been driving negligently (and having a suspended license does not equal negligent driving in this situation). It is true that the driver should not have been driving, but nobody knows who was responsible without more facts. Right now it seems like both driver and pedestrian were at fault; driver should have had better lookout and driven more cautiously and student should have crossed more cautiously. This is a true tragedy, but everyone should be more hesitant to point the finger at anyone. If the police believed the driver was liable for the accident, they wouldn't have taken him home after the accident. My prayers to both Peter and the driver's family.

Posted by Andy Frank at 1:6 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

I am a student in Mcnutt and I saw the accident right after it happened and on the news last night, they said he was driving on a suspended license. Therefore, the driver is responsible for it.

Posted by IU Mom at 1:1 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Why dont they put a stop light with a crosswalk between McNutt and Foster since there are so many people crossing there? Kids are getting on and off the buses plus kids are trying to cross from the other dorms to get to the cafateria. Seems like this could be a simple solution so this doesnt happen again. I have seen cars speed down Fee a number of times and there is just way too much foot traffic for this to take place. INSTALL A STOP LIGHT WITH A CROSS WALK!!!!

Posted by Sabrina Russello at 12:39 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

This is a sad story. I was one of the first people getting information on the scene and it was overwhelming. The worse part about this is that RAs @ Mcnutt last year tried to get speed bumps put on Fee Lane to slow down traffic and the request was denied. It's pretty sad that something as tragic as this has to happen before a safety precaution such as speed bumps is put into action. I'm not actually sure if they are going to put speed bumps on the street yet, but its definitely a good idea and they sure as hell should be considering it.

Posted by Alpha at 12:32 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Omega, I bet you're one of those a**holes who drive 60 miles an hour in your Audi up Woodlawn avenue after dropping one of your frat brothers off at the union so you can catch the light at tenth street. People need to slow the f*ck down before more people get killed. And that goes for hipsters who think they don't have to obey traffic laws just because they are on a bike.

Posted by Student at 12:10 PM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Just a question..has it been proven that Peter was walking out after getting off a bus? Because I arrived at the scene shortly after the accident and there was no bus there, and I have not read in any newspaper articles anything about a bus. So maybe everyone is arguing about something that didn't actually occur. My thoughts and prayers go out to the victim and the driver.

Posted by jason at 11:40 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

To the mom, closing off the campus to traffic is a knee jerk reaction without understanding how large of a campus IUB is. This particular street is the widest I can think of, where students jaywalk all day long. Lets take responsibility folks!

Posted by Omega at 11:39 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

IU mom you don't get it. If students would stop jaywalking all over campus this would never have happened. There are plenty of designated crosswalks on campus. I will pray for this student and his family, but a tragedy like this was inevitable. The sad thing is today I drove down Fee lane and literally 20 feet away from the flowers laid out for this poor student I saw 2 students walk right out in front of a car. Students don't care and don't think this could happen to them.

Posted by jason at 11:35 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

To all the alarmed parents thinking, how could this happen at IU! Uh, get real, traffic accidents can happen ANYWHERE, ANYTIME. There are a number of dangerous streets where students endanger themselves every hour of the day. Lets take responsibility in our actions, rather than blaming others, or a lack or rules and policies. People made mistakes in this terrible accident. RIP to the student.

Posted by Senior Student at 11:31 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

The worst people on campus in regards to disobeying any type of rule/law are bikers. If you're in the street, follow signs and regulations. If you're not, don't whiz around dodging people like an idiot on the sidewalk. I've seen bikes hit many people in my 4 years here. This issue isn't solely for automobile drivers.

Posted by IU MOM at 11:24 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

My thoughts and prayers go out to all the families involved in this tragic accident. IU administrators MUST realize that as parents, we entrust our students safety to you. Both walkers and drivers must be aware of their surroundings at all times but. . . . . The IU administration must also do all they can to make the environment a safe place for both walkers and driveers. If this includes NOT allowing cars to drive through campus then so be it. SAFETY should be the main concern not convenience!!!!

Posted by Kyle at 10:44 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

For the person who thinks IUPD does nothing but sit around campus and ticket parked cars, you couldn't be more wrong. Please attempt to research anything you say on a public forum, as I bet you someone knows more than you every time you post. Parking Operations tickets parked cars, that is their only function. They are not police officers. IUPD enforces the laws of the state, that is their main function. They are not meter maids. If you took a second to look, you would see squad cars pulling over cars all day and all night for speeding, reckless driving and every other traffic offense in the book. In fact, several officers have won awards for having the most Drunk Driving arrests in the state in recent years. So please take a second and realize the police department does what they can with what they've got and at least mentally thank them for dealing with everything they do so you can peacefully drink in your dorm room.

Posted by Anonymous at 10:32 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

May his memory be eternal, and may God grant comfort to all Peter's family and friends. IC XC NIKA.

Posted by Carlos Teran at 10:5 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

I am very sad for the loss of a friend. In a little time that I knew Peter;He demonstrated me values as the respect, the consideration and the sacrifice. Thank you for teaching me and to give me the opportunity to be your friend. I will remember you as an exemplary person. God blesses you friend. Please!, let's drive and let's walk with precaution. Let's not speak for cell phone while we are driving. Our families wait for us in house.

Posted by anonymous49 at 9:59 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Although I want to say that I HAVE heard bus drivers at that stop, and also other stops, tell the students not to cross in front of the bus, I do also have to say that people drive crazy around here. I have almost been hit numerous times in the crosswalk! People driving just don't want to stop and I am not sure why. I am a driver and I am very careful because it is sooo easy to hit someone. Plus, I never drive when I am in a hurry because that is a mistake! A couple days ago, I was at the crosswalk where Wright and the auditorium are and I had let the cars go and then it was my turn so I started walking. The driver on the other side of the road, with his giant SUV, started heading straight at me without stopping at the stop sign and I almost got it. Stop signs hardly work on this campus.

Posted by Auntie at 8:51 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

God has a reason for everything. He must have a higher plan for Peter. Please be with his family in their time of need and also with the gentleman who hit him for this was a true accident. Please pray for them all to give them peace.

Posted by Don't blame driver at 8:32 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

If the reports are true and the student stepped out in front of a bus, then the fault is all his. Pedestrians in IN only have right of way in crosswalks, and cars are *supposed* to pass non-yellow buses if there's room. I'd be the last person to defend IU student driving, and maybe had the driver been going more slowly Peter wouldn't have been killed, but imagine you're driving down the road and someone walks directly in front of your car--your life is ruined just because they didn't follow common sense and grade-school safety instructions (e.g. don't cross less than 10 feet in front of a bus).

Posted by Not worth the negativity at 6:15 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

It's a shame how people are saying all of these negetive things towards the driver of this vehicle. Accidents are called accidents because they're NOT MEANT to happen! My heart & prayers go out to the victim & his family. I'm truly sorry for their loss. But, I also send them out to the driver and his. We should stop judging others if not but for 1 simple reason, we don't like it when we are judged! We are college students-growing into mature adults everyday of our lives. Let's act like it! Be more sympathetic and less pathetic with our comments!

Posted by IU senior at 1:10 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Both pedestrians and drivers need to be more careful on this campus. I can't count the number of times I've seen someone flying down Third Street without a care for any of the students crossing in front of Jordan Hall. On the other hand, I've been driving and seen people walk directly into the line of traffic like I'm not even there. Yes, pedestrians always have the right of way, but that doesn't give anyone an excuse for not paying attention.

Posted by IU Student at 1:9 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

This is nothing short of a tragedy- for the victim, for the driver, for both of their families, and for anyone who saw this horrible accident today. My thoughts go out to Duong and his family right now, who definitely need it more than anyone else. However, I had a friend who killed someone because she was goofing off while driving (it was definitely her mistake), and I can tell you without a doubt that this will haunt the driver for the rest of his life. Let's not accuse anyone of anything until we know the full circumstances of the accident. We don't know anything yet, except that someone who didn't deserve to die is gone tonight. Let's simply focus on Duong's life and his family right now, all of whom our respect and sympathy.

Posted by Jeff at 1:0 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

You have no idea what vehicular manslaughter is if you think this is it. Vehicular Manslaughter is causing the death of another human being due to illegal driving of an automobile. The driver of the car was not driving illegally in anyway. Get your facts straight before you post nonsense like that.

Posted by Anthony at 12:58 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Seriously, I'm from California and I've never seen drivers as aggressive and ridiculously careless as on the IU campus. Hopefully this gets the administration to open their eyes and realize that allowing traffic through a compact campus is a very, very bad idea. Better yet, they should start drawing in bike paths for all of us looking to not zip around arrogantly in wagons shoving smoke into the air.

Posted by question at 12:44 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

Student (Who posted at 12 am)- Did you just say the driver committed a minor traffic violation? Because no... he actually killed someone. I do sympathize with the driver, I know it was an accident and I feel almost as horrible for him as the victim, but the law would call this vehicular manslaughter.

Posted by speechgeek at 12:3 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

this is incredibly sad, and an exceptionally tragic way to start the school year. peter was a great friend and comfort to me, since we were in the same scholarship program. i was looking forward to seeing him tomorrow. however, what is terrible is that people were still racing down fee lane AND law lane when i was walking there tonight. though traffic flow is horrendous and needs an overhaul, people, not machinery make the mistakes. we should all be more careful in driving, as well as walking. fee lane is terrible and needs to be changed, and maybe this will be a wake up call to admin. my heart goes out to both families, because no parents should have to deal with this type of crisis. it is already difficult to send children to school, i can only imagine what the parents of both students feel. RIP, Peter, we will miss you.

Posted by Student at 12:0 AM on Sep 10, 2009 | Report this comment

I fell horrible for all that knew and loved Peter. But please don't go attack the student that hit him. I am sure he feels worst than I can describe in words for what occured today. He will have to live with that for the rest of his life. Just try to put yourself into his shoes for a moment. And the comments about him going to jail for a very long time need to stop now. People drive around this campus drunk all the time (no I am not defending them they are complete idiots) this 19 year old kid commited a minor traffic volation and people act like he is Satan. I think he has learned his lesson, jail would be a waste of our money,and this kids life. Just back off a bit.

Posted by Aaron Torchio at 11:41 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

There is a larger issue here. I walk this road every day to the business school and I quickly realized that Fee lane is a disaster. Hundreds of students are walking with no regard for cars, cars are turning everywhere, boy racers are revving their engines to impress girls, bicycles are on both the sidewalks and street, and buses are traveling at 35 MPH inches from the sidewalks which are full of people. This road is in DESPERATE need of an overhaul- some stop signs, and a timed crosswalk would be a start. Horrible that this happened to a student, but I am surprised it hasn't already happened. This road existing is absolute negligence on behalf by the University. I would encourage the dean of students to walk up Fee Lane under the train tracks and see how comfortable he is when a bus flies by a foot from his shoulder. My thoughts and prayers go out to the student's friends and family.

Posted by Michael at 11:28 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I was a Freshman living at Briscoe last year and I saw on numerous occasions, times when the A bus would let off and we'd go to pass the front of the bus and cars would ZOOM by passing the bus as it let off. I almost saw two students get hit, luckily they pulled themselves back from the traffic. What needs to happen is for stop signs to be attached to the driver side window of the buses (yes school bus-style) and for it to be mandatory for all cars to stop. Yes it'll take 30 seconds out of everyones day but you know what maybe lives will be saved. This should have NEVER happened.

Posted by MH at 11:24 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

One of the comments here was that the driver tried to go around the bus. I thought it was illegal for cars to pass a bus like this??

Posted by ashley at 11:20 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

So your saying one of my best friends were killed because some guy with a suspended license was passing the stupid bus. This is so stupid he shouldn't even be gone. The one driving the car should go to jail for a very long time.

Posted by Michael IU at 10:58 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

This story neglects to tell the reason why the accident happened. He got off the bus and walked around the front of the bus to cross the street while the driver tried to pass the bus, niether of them saw the other until he got pass the bus. That is the safety issue that needs to be addressed.

Posted by CameraPhoto at 10:45 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

As a young generation, we can't help but feel somewhat immortal and impervious to the tragedies that befall others around us. As college students we feel that the world is one big opportunity and we are eager to change it and make it grow. It is very hard to comprehend something like this and the implications it has on our lives wont be felt for days, months, even years. We must take care of ourselves and our friends, our relationships and our wellbeing. Peter was a great kid full of vitality and potential. One could easily tell this when you spoke to him. I would like to ask you to go about your days here at IU with the same passion Peter did.

Posted by sara at 10:35 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Fee Lane in between foster and mcnutt desperately needs a cross walk for the safety of these students. Anyone who is at power at IU, please help. Students desperately need this in order to insure our safety. My prayers go out to the family of both the victim and the driver. Please students, be alert, be observant, and take precautions. RIP

Posted by Parent Observer at 10:33 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Mr. Hargrove and Senior Student Driver: The correct term is "Right of Way" not "ride-away" or anything else. This is a terribly tragic incident for everyone involved. I have a daughter who is a sophomore at IU. It's concerning to imagine something like this can happen. I hope the administrative and student body wakes up over there.

Posted by Educate yurselves at 10:30 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Pedestrians: Know the law. http://www.state.in.us/legislative/ic/code/title9/ar21/ch17.html Pay particular attention to IC 9-21-17-5 and IC 9-21-17-7. How many violations of Indiana Code 9-21-17-## were writen in Bloomington in the last year? It takes two to tango: Don't ya'll start just going after drivers. How 'bout a law to ban cell phone use while driving? or walking! Speed bumps - bike paths - cross walks - only decrease the safety of roads. And ya'll need to slow down and look around more.

Posted by sara at 10:28 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Fee Lane in between foster and mcnutt desperately needs a cross walk for the safety of these students. My prayers go out to the family of both the victim and the driver. Please students, be alert, be observant, and take precautions. RIP

Posted by Noah at 10:24 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Scanner traffic indicates another vehicle vs pedestrian at 13th and Fee Lane at approximately 10:15pm today. The pedestrian has minor injuries... I guess people don't learn, do they?

Posted by Senior Student Driver at 10:22 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Mr. Hargove...as long as I have been driving at IU I learned one rule: on campus all pedestrians have the ride-away. ON CAMPUS cars must yield to them no matter what. Which is why speeding on campus, especially down Fee lane is always a bad idea. I was a freshman at Foster, and always had to watch myself when crossing due to flying cars AND buses for that matter. My prayers go out to both the driver and the victim and anyone else affected by this tragedy. I think this should be a wake up call to all the speeders on campus. Including myself.

Posted by Oklahoma State Alum at 10:20 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I didn't attend IU, but this was brought to my attention by a friend who does. I'll be praying for his family. Such a sad story.

Posted by Hoosier Values at 10:18 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

People drive waay to fast on this campus. IU roads have not been designed for this much traffic. I've been almost hit numerous times crossing ON GREEN for pedestrians when stupid cars tried to speed a turn. Honestly traffic flow needs to be redesigned and more SPEED BUMPS! More crosswalks for pedestrians. MORE CAMERAS to track down irresponsible drivers, drivers here weave in and out of lanes without signaling, exceed speed limits, run red lights and otherwise behave horrendously. There needs to be a tough crack-down on irresponsible driving.This is not New York people! This is small-time Indiana town of Bloomington! Can't we observe the Hoosier Values of kindness and hospitality on our roads? My thoughts are with Peter and his family. McRobbie needs to get off his private jet, spend less time abroad ( this is what we get for hiring a foreigner who lacks any semblance of Hoosier Values as president) and actually do something on campus for change.

Posted by Mother of IU student at 10:16 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

This is a horrible tragedy for everyone especially Peter, his family and the driver. When I went to college I used to get angry at drivers not yielding to students...this is the "student's campus" and they should have the right-of- way regardless!! While driving my daughter around at orientation, I made a point of stopping whenever a student was crossing. Peter was just starting his life and I cannot imagine what his family is going through. My heart also goes out to the driver. It appears to be a terrible accident but heartbreaking none the less. Students be very, very careful, pay attention when crossing, make sure the drivers see you. May the great memories of Peter keep him with his family and friends forever. G-d bless him. With sympathy and love.

Posted by ? at 10:14 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Life is short - tragedies such as this only magnify that sentiment.

Posted by Former Foster resident at 9:59 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I personally feel really bad for the driver. He has to live with this FOREVER. Wishing he could go back and do things different. Everyone should slow down and watch out. I lived on fee lane and walked it everyday. You have to watch out even if you don't see a car because one could be coming over the hill faster then ever south bound and not have time to stop when they realize there is people in the street. I think something needs to be done to make fee safer because this is tragic. My thoughts and prayers are with both families

Posted by Mark at 9:58 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

How awful for all involved! May God comfort the parents and the driver and accept the soul of Peter Duong. As a parent who has a sophomore at IU who holds such promise and hope for the future, this has to be incomprehensible for Peter's parents, the driver, and the families of all involved. May God bless the IU family.

Posted by Lauren at 9:48 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

My thoughts and my prayers go out to the families of both Peter and the driver. I haven't stopped thinking about either one of you since this happened.

Posted by student mom at 9:41 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

My freshman son just told me the sad news. He described how difficult it is to cross the street on Fee Lane during school hours. Maybe now, a crosswalk and or a traffic light will be installed at campus intersections with heavy pedestrian traffic. How many accidents or deaths will occur before action is taken?

Posted by Ben at 9:39 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

People DO need to cross at crosswalks and such, but I cannot begin to tell you how many times I have been walking with my son (following the lights and crossing at crosswalks) and nearly been hit. Too many drivers are too distracted by their own "important" business. Weather it's putting on make up, eating, talking on a cell phone, etc....just remember that when you drive...there is NOTHING more important than paying attention to your driving.

Posted by Sympathy at 9:23 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Mr. Hargrove I am sorry you hate your job so much. But I think this was the wrong place to state your opinion when a family and friends of Peters and going through such heartache. However, I feel that if IU did prohibit private vehicles on campus it would make your job ten times harder. Not only would you have to transport students you would then have to transport professors, staff, and everyone else that use to park on campus to go to class. Therefore I think you should be grateful that you have a job and keep in mind that we are all just college kids usually running late for class and need to cross the road. If we weren't here you would be out of a job. I am very sorry for the loss and lift the family up in prayers as well as Mr. Hargrove.

Posted by IU student mother at 9:8 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of this young man who lost his life today. May God also be with the student who was driving the car and all the students who witnessed the tragedy who's lives are also forever changed.

Posted by Sympathetic at 9:6 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Just a couple of nights ago I almost hit a girl who didn't look before crossing the street. On campus cars often don't stop and pedestrians including myself often become aggressive about crossing the street or just expect people to stop. It is definitely a problem that should be addressed. I don't know how many times I've witnessed, heard of, or experienced someone almost being hit/being hit I'm very sorry for the family and friends of Peter. Know that many people are praying for you.

Posted by Student Driver at 8:57 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Actually Mr. Hargrove, this policy is not the problem. Also, maybe you should do some research on the subject of right away of pedestrians, because according to the laws of most states, a pedestrian has a right away at any intersection, whether there is an actual marked cross walk or not. It honestly scares me that a long time bus driving has these opinions about pedestrians and other drivers. And unfortunately, sometimes there is no fault. Accidents happen. I feel deep sadness for the family of Mr. Duong and wish them the best in these times of emotional crisis.

Posted by Cheng at 8:53 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

On a university campus where more than 30 thousand students and faculty study and live, we definitely need to drive and walk with great caution and be defensive. Best wishes to the victim's and driver's families, and let's make effort to prevent accident like this from happening again. Cheng

Posted by Drew at 8:50 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

My thoughts and prayers are with both families involved in this accident. May you find strength in God in dealing with this matter.

Posted by Lindsay at 8:46 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Such a tragedy. My thoughts and prayers go out to Peter's family.

Posted by Briscoe Student at 8:21 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

This is so sad. I live right next door to where the tragedy occured and now I'm scared to cross the street to go eat in foster. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Peter. Indiana is a great school and no one deserves to have their lives cut short before they get out into the real world. Also, living in Briscoe, I know how impossible it is to go to Foster. There needs to be a crosswalk or some sort of walkover bridge for the pedestrians. the students in the northwest neighborhood go to foster all the time to eat and kids from foster go to mcnutt to get to the c-store. THere is no crosswalk anywhere nearby for pedestrians to use. It's really unsafe. Also, the cars zip around here like its a high speed interstate. This entire tragedy could have been avoided if more measures were taken to protect the students that NEED to cross the street in this neighborhood. Once again my thoughts are with Peter's family and friends and I pray they can find some peace knowing their family member/friend was clearly loved here at IU and made an impact on many people's lived from what I understand. RIP Peter.

Posted by Anonymous at 8:17 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I think Mr. Hargrove's comments may be the most insensitive things I've ever read. I will pray for the victim and driver's families, as well as Mr. Duong himself.

Posted by Anonymous Student at 8:14 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I find it in very poor taste that this wall which has been created to post comments on this story is being used to debate driving tactics. The laws will always be there- and they will always be able to be changed and revised- but this boy has lost his life. Show some respect and go to a city council meeting or bring it up with one of the numerous offices on campus. But keep your opinions off of a wall that should be used to respect Peter's memory. Those issues can all be deal with, but this is neither the time nor the place.

Posted by Brady Hargrove at 8:10 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

As a longtime IU Bus Operator, I know there's plenty of blame to go around. There are too many students, driving too many cars, too fast, and on trips that are unnecessary. This is the fault of Parking Operations, which allows students to drive their personal motor vehicles on the Bloomington campus and sells parking passes to anyone and everyone who can pay. This needs to cease immediately. On the other hand, many students think they have the right of way simply because they're pedestrians. This is INDIANA; not California. Pedestrians do NOT HAVE THE RIGHT OF WAY when walking in the street. Motor vehicles are required to yeild to pedestrians within the crosswalk only when they are already in it. If the pedestrian is waiting on the curb, the motor vehicle is NOT REQUIRED to stop just so that you can cross. If you step out in front of a moving vehicle and create an unavoidable accident, and you are struck as a result, the PEDESTRIAN is at fault; not the motorist. The streets were built for motor vehicles and therefore motor vehicles have the right of way when traveling upon them. Pedestrians DO NOT HAVE the right of way! Speed bumps will not solve this problem; they'll just create more headaches for everyone. Proclaiming the interdict on undergrad driving and banning private motor vehicles from campus WILL.

Posted by A Mom at 8:8 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

May God Bless the Departed soul and Strengths to the family. Our Prayers are with you. Please be there for Peter who was a nice Intelligent, Well Mannered Kid. Peter has departed from this world not from our hearts. Mom and Dad Please do not breakdown. God Bless the whole family, relatives and friends.

Posted by Jennifer at 7:56 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

to all of you who have taken the time to write, thank you for your prayers and thoughts, our family will need them. Peter Anthony, whose life was lost, was my cousin and it is so tragic that his life has been taken from us so suddenly. i still can't believe it. Peter, Lisa, and Patrick, may you find the strength somehow to survive this. All my love, Jennifer

Posted by Junior Student at 7:50 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I am deeply saddened to hear of a fellow student cut down in his prime, but am not very surprised. As a biker, pedestrian, and driver (I keep the driving to a minimum for obvious reasons), commuting of any kind is dangerous. I've avoided driving on Fee Lane since freshman year... the downhill slope of the southbound lane and high pedestrian volume always made me nervous. Last year, I saw a student struck by a taxi at a crosswalk late at night, and the taxi sped off before I could get a look at the plates. Luckily, the guy was okay and walked away. The bikers have it the worst.. they risk being hit by cars (I have had several cars pull out directly in front of me while riding my bike on the road), and also by pedestrians who disregard bikes at an alarming rate. Speedbumps of Fee Lane does not sound like a bad idea at all.

Posted by Justamom at 7:49 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I want to just say this is a sad day for all who are involved and my thoughts and prayers go out to both families. I am a mom and my son has many friends at IU there is alot of issues that need to be addressed but I really feel this is the time to allow both parties time to mourn and then get out and let your voices be heard typing it will not change it get out and make the streets you walk, ride and drive on safer...My prayers are with all involved

Posted by Nick Clevenger at 7:47 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Peter lived on my floor last year and he was a great kid. He didnt deserve this, noone does. All the police care about is ticketing cars when they should be trying to save lives. Peter was a great kid and he will be greatly missed. Best wished to his family.

Posted by Sean Rosales at 7:43 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of both accident and victim. Now is a time to remember him for the person he was and learn from this tragic accident. R.I.P.

Posted by Ah! at 7:34 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

This is a tragic accident which could have been avoided. Both pedestrians and drivers need to be aware at all times, esp. on campus. Students need to use the crosswalks...not walk across the street at anytime it is convenient to them. Drivers, obviously, need to ensure their speed is such they can respond appropriately when something unexpected happens. However, people lets realize that playing the blame game does no good. People must be responsible for their actions. Law enforcement and the university can take every possible precaution and such tragic accidents will still occur, and according to you all it still wouldnt be good enough. My thoughts are with everyone involved.

Posted by Brad at 7:34 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Peter did pass away if that hadn't been confirmed. He was a super nice kid and I'm glad I had the privilege of knowing him. Let this be a sad lesson to drivers and walkers alike, watch what you're doing.

Posted by Current Student at 7:32 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I agree with 'Former Student'. The police/parking operations spend SO much time and effort ticketing cars that pose no harm, yet situations like this happen. I have heard several stories of pedestrians or bikers getting hit, most of them much more lucky than this poor kid. I have also been a driver slamming on my brakes for pedestrians who decide to cross where they see fit, and also have been a pedestrian on a crosswalk that cars don't seem to care about. It is so unsafe, and it honestly scares me to travel on campus whether it be on foot or by car. Living in McNutt my freshman year, I saw (and still do see) cars speeding on Fee as well as other places and it is so unsafe. Forget about the cars parking in the wrong spots with or without a permit. Start saving lives and enforcing traffic laws.

Posted by Freshman Parent at 7:32 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I feel so horrible after hearing this news. My prayers are with both families to have strength.

Posted by STUDENT at 7:28 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I think everyone needs to take a moment to mourn, a student just got killed. One of our own just got hit by and car and died, this is not something that happens here. Its really not the time to tell your own personal stories. Have some respect. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

Posted by Tim at 7:27 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I was hit by a car in February of 2008 in the parking lot of the Kelley School of Business. The car was traveling South on Fee lane and was trying to beat oncoming traffic and make a quick, very sharp turn into the Lot. I was in my proper lane as exiting traffic should be. I was too shocked to do anything. Luckily it was winter and I had a lot of heavy winter clothing on.

Posted by STUDENT at 7:26 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I think everyone needs to take a moment to mourn, a student just got killed. One of our own just got hit by and car and died, this is not something that happens here. Its really not the time to tell your own personal stories. Have some respect.

Posted by Beth at 7:14 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

This is such a shame that this accidnt even happened. My son was on his bike and was stuck from the back by a car near the Kelley School of Business two years ago. Witnesses said the girl was driving a white car and going stupid fast. My son didn't have a chance to get a plate number because this girl sped away. He was very shocked, hurt and totally dumbfounded. The bike went in the trash-no way it could be fixed. Luckily my son recovered, I wanted to beat this girl silly. She knows who she is and what she did. Calling and reporting it didn't help. I agree, something really does need to be done concerning crazy drivers on campus. Maybe some students should try and get to class on time-after all, it wasn't my son's fault this bimbo was racing to wherever she thought she needed to get to lightning fast.

Posted by GLH at 7:8 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I can only hope that the university will address this issue with action that provides more safety for both pedestrians and bikers... as bikers are also at danger of vehicular traffic. Bikers are also a danger to themselves and pedestrians because we travel faster than pedestrians and slower than cars. The area in front of Ballantine and by the HPER become very dangerous areas anytime classes are switching. There are few bike lanes on campus. They should exist through the Arboretum and on all roads surrounding campus. Speed bumps should also be on all roads surrounding main campus.

Posted by Stephanie Summerfield at 6:53 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Pedestrians as well as drivers need to be careful. Drivers may need to watch their speed, but pedestrians also need to look when crossing the street. When I drive through campus I get so frustrated with how many people just walk right in front of me, then I have to slam on my brakes. Everyone needs to be careful!

Posted by IUStudent at 6:52 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

My thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family. I lived in Briscoe as a freshman and walking down Fee Lane was one of the worst freshmen experiences I had. Between the wide buses flying down, the bikers closely zipping down the curved hill or students speeding I felt like I was going to get hit every single day. Does IU not realize this is horribly constructed and makes for a dangerous situation? I suggest wider sidewalks are designed so students don't have to be walking with a vehicle 10 inches from them.

Posted by IU STUDENT at 6:51 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I am an IU Student and Driver. I lived in McNutt two years ago and actually drove by today. While drivers should be careful... it is difficult to see students, especially if they dart out into the road. I think putting in a stop light in front of McNutt would be a good idea.

Posted by Btown Drivers are Crazy at 6:44 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I was walking up the hill on Fee Lane when this happened, although I did not see it. Something really does need to be done about the drivers on campus. Today, I was almost hit by a police charger in front of Ballantine because he did not yield to any pedestrian traffic. Later at 10th and Jordan, I saw a car nearly run a female student over. Luckily, they breaked at the last second. Drivers around campus need to be more cautious altogether.

Posted by Q at 6:43 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

As a mother of a freshman this accident really frightens me.I would like to know how many accidents (students being hit by speeding cars) happen each year and why people are not ticketed for speeding. Where are the police? If more tickets were handed out maybe drivers would be more cautious.

Posted by Student at 6:41 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

This accident is a tragedy and I feel for the family. Everyone is saying let this be a sign for those who fly down Fee. While I agree I feel someone also needs to say let this be a sign for those who live in the Northwest neighborhoods. So many times when I am driving (or someone else is) down Fee students just walk in front of cars without even looking. Although this may not have been the circumstance in this case, people need to understand that the driver is not always going to see/stop in time when someone just walks into the street. I think student cross walk section would be much more beneficial than speed bumps.

Posted by Former Student at 6:27 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

While I did not personally witness today's horrible accident myself, I am a former student (graduated 2007) who was hit by a car and injured on Jordan Avenue as a sophomore. My sister is now a freshman living at McNutt within feet of where this accident occurred. Following my accident, there were many times that I considered contacting the IDS, IUPD, Bloomington Police Department, etc. to start a campaign of some sort to address what is clearly a recurring problem on campus. This situation makes me wish that I had spoken up or done something sooner. Students are constantly hit on campus both due to their own lack of judgment and the carelessness of other student drivers and even buses. It boggles my mind how, over the years, the university has basically taken no action in terms of proactively addressing the lack of crosswalks and stoplights in high traffic areas such as Fee Lane, around the dorms, and Jordan Avenue, where fraternity and sorority members cross at their leisure and showoff students drive by at Indy 500 speeds. IUPD cruisers are a presence on campus, yet during my time as a student I rarely saw or heard of individuals being ticketed for speeding or other reckless driving. More time is spent ticketing parked cars that pose no threat to student safety. It would be interesting to see a story that discusses how often students are hit on campus and what, if anything, the university has done to address these issues over the years. It makes me sick to my stomach to hear stories like this. Please do something to call attention to what is surely a recurring news story in Bloomington.

Posted by michael at 6:26 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

makes me wonder if it was one of those electric cars, so quiet they give me the creeps. Drivers are too aggressive in Bloomington. I've seen reckless driving all over including right out in front of Ballantine Hall. Many come in from outside of town where pedestrians are rare and they don't adapt well enough to the changed conditions within the town particularly on campus. I'm not blaming the driver in this case, yet.

Posted by carl at 6:25 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I echo the sentiments that speed bumps should be installed on Fee Lane, amongst other locations around campus.

Posted by student at 6:16 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

As awful of a tragedy as this is I am not surprised that it happened. Being a student who lives in the Northwest neighborhood, I see numerous cars fly down Fee every single day. They pull out of a parking lot or make a turn and just gun it in an attempt to look cool and flashy. Now look what has happened. The University needs to do something to make this happen. I know it's too late for this poor boy, but something needs to be done to prevent this from happening again. A good solution, I believe, would be to put SPEED BUMPS at certain places on Fee where cars need to slow down. My thoughts and prayers are with the student's family. God bless.

Posted by IU Parent at 6:14 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Fee Lane, with its heavy pedestrian traffic and sidewalks immediately adjacent to the roadway, has always appeared very dangerous. I have often thought that someone would either step into or get squeezed into oncoming traffic. This is very sad and my heart goes out to the families of both the victim and driver.

Posted by Sam Sailer at 6:12 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

My prayers to the family and to everyone who had to witness such a horrible event.

Posted by DM at 6:11 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Yes, IU students need to do a better job of using the crosswalks but drivers in Bloomington do an extremely poor job of yielding to crosswalks. I drive to work everyday and I've seen both sides of this. I walk around campus most days and am constantly amazed at how aggressive drivers are regarding pedestrians. I'm sorry but there's no excuse for accelerating on a pedestrian in the crosswalk as a bully tactic. Yet I see and experience this all the time at IU. The IU police turn a blind eye to this. There's more to traffic enforcement than speeding tickets and enforcing crosswalk laws are something they really need to take more seriously. Hopefully this is a wake-up call to law enforcement.

Posted by JS - IU student at 5:56 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I agree wholeheartedly with the post by "A mom." As a student, for the past four years I have witnessed precisely what you have described, and it makes me ill. To drive on campus is a very stressful situation, as pedestrians never even think to look one way or another before crossing the streets, and people drive way too fast and carelessly day in and day out. I feel deeply for the family and friends of th student, as well as the driver. I hope this wakes up the campus to the dangers of their actions, and allows everyone to think when they jump in their vehicles or set out to walk to class.

Posted by Parent of IU Student at 5:53 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Students come to campus believing that they are on a pedestrian campus [not a well traveled street]regardless of the traffic. At the University where I work, we closed the major road intersecting our campus; thankfully. I know of two workers hit in less than 6 months before it was closed. Everyone please be careful! Prayers to all involved...

Posted by MNS at 5:36 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

A horrible loss for his family, friends, and this community. May his memory be a blessing to all those who knew and loved him. Please, please be careful.

Posted by A mom at 5:35 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

This is so sad. Even worse, it is so preventable. After coming to IU for several years now, visiting my child who is an IU student, I can honestly say I am not surprised. I am not being heartless, just honest. Driving on campus is a scary experience for me, because every time I am in the car, I witness the total lack of responsibility that kids have. They just step out in the street without looking in any direction, talking or texting, as if it their safety is solely the responsibility of the driver, not the pedestrian. No, I'm not suggesting it was the student's fault. I'm just hoping that you guys will pay attention. The other thing I see there is how fast everyone drives, in such congested situations, it has always been an accident waiting to happen. And so it has happened. No one is immortal, people. As a driver, you are the operator of an effective killing machine. Don't ever, for one moment, think that this can't happen to you. Now look at the devastating event that will no doubt shatter several lives. Pray for the family of both the student who was killed, and the driver. His life is never going to be the same.

Posted by Katie at 5:34 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

I am not sure if I like the way that this article was ended. I dont think family and friends would like to see how their son "got really high" when he flipped over the car. Maybe be a little more sympathetic, please? My prayers go out to both families.

Posted by Kristen at 5:28 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

there was a chemical spill at woodburn. thoughts and prayers with the family and witnesses

Posted by Mary at 5:24 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

My thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of this boy. Please everyone be careful, be alert, and look out for one another.

Posted by Jillian at 5:5 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

This is horrible! I hope he is okay. I was also wondering if any IDS members could find out what was going on at Woodburn Hall?

Posted by Andrea at 4:50 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

My theory has always been "safety in numbers." I won't cross the street unless other people are crossing as well. It gives drivers more chances to notice people crossing and they are a lot more likely to stop. I really hope people can learn from this. My prayers are with the family. I can't even imagine what this will be like for them.

Posted by Natalie Avon - EIC at 4:50 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

This is Natalie Avon, editor-in-chief of the IDS. If anybody has more information about this, please email us at campus@idsnews.com and editor@idsnews.com. We are looking for friends, family, and any other information.

Posted by Charlotte at 4:40 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Sadly students cross the street here all the time without looking for oncoming traffic. I hope that this sad tragedy will be a lesson for all students living in those dorms to use extreme caution when crossing the street.

Posted by david at 4:24 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

there is confirmation that the student who was hit has passed away. please continue to pray fot eh young man and his family and friends.

Posted by Christine at 3:51 PM on Sep 09, 2009 | Report this comment

Unfortunately I was driving right behind the vehicle that hit this poor student and saw the scene. It was so sudden and devastating to see and I can only pray for him now. Please, please, please, be CAREFUL walking and driving on campus. Life is so precious and things can change in the blink of an eye.


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