LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — After a deadly 12 hours on Southern Nevada roads, drivers spoke with 8 News Now about their efforts to stay safe during the holiday season while encouraging others to be aware.
“Be courteous,” Frank Ross said of driving in Las Vegas. “Don’t have on blinders.”
Ross said that he holds himself to that standard as well, adding that he is looking out for other people on the road. He is one of many who said they are working to stay vigilant, especially through the holiday season.
Thanksgiving had a tragic start for some, as the area saw four serious crashes in the last 12 hours. The most recent incident happened early Thursday morning on I-15 southbound near Lake Mead Boulevard. It was there, according to Nevada State Police, that a woman was hit by a car and left with critical injuries. Troopers said the driver then left the scene.
Troopers are asking the public for assistance in finding the hit-and-run suspect’s vehicle, a 2018 Cadillac Escalade or a GMC Yukon, and its driver. The vehicle’s color is unknown, but officials believe it may have left front or side damage.
Also, early Thursday morning, a man on a scooter was hit and killed by a car while trying to cross Lake Mead Boulevard near Nellis Boulevard. Las Vegas Metropolitan police said that the car, which was reportedly stolen, lost control in the crash, and the driver was ejected. The driver and passenger ran from the scene on foot before officers arrived.
On Wednesday evening, two serious crashes happened in one hour. The first left a pedestrian critically hurt near Blue Diamond Road and Valley View Boulevard. The second killed a woman crossing the street near Nellis Boulevard and Twain Avenue.
According to LVMPD officials, neither pedestrian was in a marked crosswalk when the crashes happened. The drivers in each incident remained on the scene and showed no signs of impairment.
Ross told 8 News Now stories like this would make anyone think twice before they get behind the wheel.
“We all just want to get back home to family members,” he said. “So that’s the main thing.”
He encouraged others always to stay aware while driving anywhere.
“Look out for other people,” Ross concluded. “As well as yourself.”
