SANDY, UT – A 40-year-old man was critically injured on Thursday evening after being struck by a vehicle while crossing in a designated crosswalk near Alta High School. The incident occurred around 7:00 p.m. at the intersection of 11000 South and 1000 East, prompting immediate emergency response and drawing attention to pedestrian safety in the area. According to the Sandy Police Department, the victim was crossing the street when he was hit by a vehicle traveling in the same direction. Emergency responders arrived shortly after the collision and provided immediate medical attention before transporting the man to a nearby hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Authorities have not released the identity of the injured pedestrian due to privacy concerns, but family members have been notified. The driver of the vehicle, whose identity has also not been disclosed, remained at the scene of the accident and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. Sandy police have stated that they are conducting a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the crash, including witness interviews and the review of any available surveillance footage from the area. This incident raises significant concerns about pedestrian safety, particularly near schools where children and families frequent. Alta High School, located in a residential area, often sees heavy foot traffic, especially during school hours and after school activities. Local residents have expressed their worries about traffic conditions and the need for improved safety measures in the vicinity of the school. "This area gets really busy, especially in the mornings and afternoons when students are coming and going," said a nearby resident who wished to remain anonymous. "It’s crucial that drivers pay attention and that we have proper signage and crossings to protect pedestrians." In response to the rising number of pedestrian accidents, the Sandy City Council has been exploring various traffic safety initiatives. These measures include enhancing crosswalk visibility with additional signage and lighting, as well as potentially implementing speed reductions in school zones. Public safety officials are also advocating for community awareness campaigns aimed at educating both drivers and pedestrians about road safety. This incident is part of a larger trend seen across many cities in Utah, where pedestrian-related accidents have been on the rise. According to data from the Utah Department of Public Safety, there were over 800 pedestrian-involved crashes reported statewide in 2022, with a significant number occurring in urban areas. As local authorities grapple with these statistics, the need for comprehensive traffic safety strategies becomes increasingly urgent. The Sandy Police Department has urged anyone who may have witnessed the accident or has information regarding the incident to come forward. They emphasize that community input is vital for a complete understanding of the circumstances that led to this tragic event. As the investigation continues, residents are left to grapple with the implications of the incident. Many parents are reconsidering their routes to and from school, while local advocacy groups are calling for immediate action to safeguard pedestrians. In the wake of this incident, council members are set to discuss pedestrian safety measures at their upcoming meeting next week. The community is eager to see tangible steps taken to prevent future accidents and ensure that the safety of pedestrians, especially children, is prioritized. As of now, the condition of the injured man remains critical, and the community holds its breath, hoping for his recovery while also advocating for essential changes to enhance safety for all who walk near the school. The Sandy Police Department has committed to keeping the public informed as new developments arise in the case, and residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and aware of their surroundings when navigating busy streets.