INDIANAPOLIS — The community has concerns about dangerous driving at a northwest side intersection after a woman was killed in a hit-and-run over the weekend.
“It’s tragic, it’s not necessarily somebody I would want to be friends with who can do something like that and drive away,” Amanda Schwartz said.
Police say 72 year-old Karen Reffitt was hit and killed on Saturday near the intersection of 71st and Georgetown Road. Police say the driver didn’t stop.
No arrests have been made. “I hope they realize the women that we lost was an amazing woman that we won’t ever get back,” Schwartz said.
IMPD data shows that this weekend’s incident wasn’t the first hit and run at this very intersection. In fact, at least 19 reports of hit and runs have been filed since 2022. Those include everything from pedestrians to cars struck to property damage.
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“This one here is absolutely dangerous and I think it’s due to people running the red light when they are turning – they just jump the light,” One neighbor said.
The Department of Public Works says its fatal crash review team will look at the circumstances surrounding the incident and potentially give recommended fixes for the intersection.
It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the pedestrian who tragically lost their life in a recent accident in our district – W 71st Street and Georgetown Road. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this incredibly difficult time.
Every neighbor in Indianapolis, regardless of their age or council district should be able to navigate the city safely by foot, bike or car. This heartbreaking incident underscores the urgent need for safer roadways in our community and a shift in the culture and mindset to embrace the fact that drivers must slow down and share the road with pedestrians and cyclists. As the City County Councilor for District 6, I am committed to advocating for legislation that will reduce traffic speeds and enhance the safety of our streets for all pedestrians. It is imperative that we create an environment where residents can walk and commute without fear.
To achieve this, I am actively supporting measures that will introduce traffic-calming infrastructure, additional sidewalks, and enhance overall road safety. Our community’s well-being is my top priority, and I am dedicated to working tirelessly to implement these changes. I want the participation and collaboration from the community as well. It is important that we co-create solutions and together identify hotspots in district 6, where cyclists and pedestrians are most at risk.
Together, we can create a safer, more pedestrian-friendly District 6.
Please feel free to reach out to me with any concerns or suggestions you may have. Your input is invaluable as we strive to improve our community.
Name: Dr. Carlos W. Perkins
Email: Carlos.perkins@Indy.gov
Phone: 317.797.5170
At this time, no additional information has been released.
Police encourage anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 317-262-8477 or contact the IMPD Traffic Unit.
