A Soldier assigned to Fort Riley, Kansas, died in a pedestrian mishap 18 March 2021 near the installation at 0510 local. It is suspected that the Soldier was struck by a vehicle when he was walking eastbound in the westbound lane of I-70. The Soldier was reportedly released from extra duty about 2300 on 17 March, and did not report to duty the next day. A former Fort Riley Soldier stated that the Soldier came to his off-post residence about 2330, where they talked and consumed alcohol, before leaving in the early hours.
Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) reported the remains of an unidentified individual located on I-70 slightly east of milepost 302 at approximately 0510 on 18 March. At 1036 hours, Fort Riley Directorate of Emergency Services was notified by the Geary County Sheriff's Office, Geary County, Kansas, that the fingerprints obtained from the remains were matched to a Soldier assigned to the unit. No personal effects or identification were located on or near the body, with the exception of a cellphone believed to belong to another Fort Riley Soldier assigned to the same unit. The body was later identified to be that of the missing Soldier. An autopsy of the remains will be completed at Frontier Forensics, Kansas City, Kansas. An investigation is ongoing by the local authorities in conjunction with the Fort Riley Criminal Investigations Division. The unit and safety POC are waiting for local authorities to release information.
Since 2016, the Army has lost an average of seven Soldiers a year to pedestrian/non-motorist mishaps. This mishap is the second pedestrian/non-motorist fatality of FY21.
Pedestrian Safety Tips
1. Be predictable. Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
2. Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
3. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
4. Keep alert at all times; don’t be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road.
5. Whenever possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections, where drivers expect pedestrians. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
6. If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.
7. Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach to make sure you are seen.
8. Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.
9. Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways, or backing up in parking lots.
10. Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and judgment.