March 31, 2025

Carter Capner Law monitors accidents involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, busses, cyclists and trams throughout Australia to spotlight safety issues of concern to our clients and to demonstrate those situations in which they may have a right to an insurance or compensation recovery. We act for drivers, riders, passengers, pedestrians. Call today on 1300 529 529 or click here to reach Carter Capner Law. Click on Client Showcase to view our history of road accident compensation claims.

Incident Overview
A pedestrian has tragically died after being struck by two vehicles in the Adelaide CBD on Sunday, March 30, 2025 , at approximately 9:30 pm . The incident occurred at the intersection of Wakefield Street and Frome Street , a busy area frequented by pedestrians and vehicles.

The victim, a 65-year-old man from Adelaide, was crossing the road when he was first hit by a four-wheel-drive and then struck again by a station wagon. He died at the scene despite emergency services’ efforts.

One driver, a 61-year-old man from Mitchell Park , has been charged with causing death by careless driving and is scheduled to appear in court in June. Police are also speaking with the second driver, a 20-year-old man from Hillcrest , as part of their investigation.

This marks the 23rd life lost on South Australian roads this year , compared to 20 fatalities at the same time last year.

Details of the Crash

  • Crash Date: Sunday, March 30, 2025 (approximately 9:30 pm).
  • Location: Intersection of Wakefield Street and Frome Street, Adelaide CBD.
  • Vehicles Involved: A four-wheel-drive and a station wagon.
  • Victim: A 65-year-old man from Adelaide, who died at the scene.

Police reported that the pedestrian was crossing the road when he was struck by both vehicles in quick succession. Emergency services arrived promptly but were unable to revive the man.

Emergency Response
Emergency services attended the scene shortly after the crash was reported. Despite their efforts, the pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. Both vehicles involved in the collision were towed for forensic examination as part of the investigation.

Authorities have marked skid marks and other evidence at the intersection to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash.

Police Investigation
The South Australia Police are conducting a detailed investigation into the crash, focusing on:

  • The actions of both drivers leading up to the collision, including speed and adherence to road rules.
  • Road conditions, signage, and visibility at the intersection at the time of the crash.
  • Potential factors such as distraction, fatigue, or impairment.

A 61-year-old man from Mitchell Park , who was driving the four-wheel-drive, has been charged with causing death by careless driving . He was granted bail and is scheduled to appear in court in June.

Police are also speaking with the 20-year-old driver of the station wagon from Hillcrest to determine his role in the incident.

Superintendent Mark Gilbert emphasized the importance of driver vigilance, particularly in areas with high pedestrian traffic:

“Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, and it’s critical that drivers remain alert and cautious, especially in busy urban areas like the Adelaide CBD.”

Community Impact
The death of the 65-year-old pedestrian has deeply affected the Adelaide CBD community, particularly given the location of the crash at a busy intersection. Local residents and businesses have expressed concern over road safety in the area, calling for improved infrastructure and increased enforcement to protect pedestrians.

This tragedy highlights the ongoing challenges faced by urban areas in balancing vehicle and pedestrian traffic safely. Advocates are urging authorities to review intersections like Wakefield Street and Frome Street to identify potential improvements.

Road Safety Context
This incident underscores the dangers faced by pedestrians in urban environments, particularly at busy intersections. According to police statistics, this marks the 23rd fatality on South Australian roads this year , a concerning increase compared to 20 deaths at the same time last year.

Advocates are calling for:

  • Improved lighting and signage at high-risk intersections.
  • Public awareness campaigns about pedestrian safety and driver responsibility.
  • Increased enforcement of traffic laws in urban areas.

Detective Acting Superintendent Gilbert urged drivers to prioritize safety:

“Every life lost on our roads is one too many. We need everyone—drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians—to play their part in ensuring our streets are safe for all.”

How You Can Help
If you were in the Adelaide CBD area around the time of the crash or have any information about the incident, your assistance could be crucial. Dashcam footage, CCTV recordings, or eyewitness accounts may help piece together the events leading up to the collision.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact: