Victim identified in fatal pedestrian accident in Sturgis

STURGIS, S.D. (KBHB) – Authorities have identified the victim of Monday’s vehicle vs. pedestrian accident.

Police have identified the victim as 68-year-old Jerry Watkins of Sturgis.

Watkins was in the crosswalk, attempting to cross Sherman Street at the intersection with Harley Davidson Way when he was struck by a westbound pickup truck being driven by 59-year-Gary Vandenberg.

Vandenberg had stopped at the four-way stop, before proceeding, but reportedly did not see Watkins before striking him.

Watkins became trapped underneath the pickup truck and first responders and by-standers were able to move the vehicle off of him to provide first aid. Watkins was taken by ambulance to Sturgis Regional Hospital, where he died of his injuries.

Vandenberg was cited for having an obstructed windshield.

The accident was investigated by the Sturgis Police Department with help from the South Dakota Highway Patrol.