Harrisburg, PA - Pedestrian Dies, Driver Arrested in Hit-and-Run on Paxton St

Harrisburg, PA (May 4, 2025) – Police have arrested a man after a deadly hit-and-run crash that took place on Friday, May 2.

The Harrisburg Police Department was called to the 1900 block of Paxton Street for a person struck around 9:00 p.m. Friday. When police arrived, they found a man in the roadway who had been struck by a passing car. They determined the striking vehicle had fled the scene. In the meantime, the man was taken to the hospital, where he died.

After an investigation, police identified and arrested 50-year-old Guillermo Cervantes, who they believe to be the driver of the vehicle. Cervantes has been charged with an accident involving death or personal injury, among other charges. However, no further details have been released, and the victim has yet to be identified.

We offer our deepest condolences to the deceased man's family members.

Pedestrian Accidents in Pennsylvania

Pedestrian crashes are a growing concern across Pennsylvania. In recent years, more than 4,000 pedestrians have been hurt statewide annually, with dozens of fatalities. Urban areas like Philadelphia see a higher number of pedestrian-involved collisions due to heavy traffic, limited visibility at night, and frequent intersections.

Here are some of the key challenges faced by victims of pedestrian crashes:

• Vulnerability and Severity of Injuries: Without the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians are extremely vulnerable. Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, fractures, spinal damage, and internal bleeding, many of which require long-term care or rehabilitation.
• Medical Bills and Emergency Transport: Ambulance transport and emergency room visits can quickly lead to thousands of dollars in expenses. Many victims face difficulties paying these bills, especially if they are uninsured or forced to miss work during recovery.
• Emotional Trauma: Being hit by a vehicle is not only physically damaging but also mentally scarring. Victims may experience anxiety, flashbacks, or depression, especially if the driver fled the scene and justice hasn’t been served.
• Difficulty Identifying Drivers: Hit-and-run crashes are often harder to resolve legally. Without clear vehicle information or witness testimony, it can take time for authorities to locate the responsible party, delaying justice and compensation.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait to get legal support. Call our Harrisburg pedestrian accident attorneys at Edelstein, Martin, and Nelson today. The sooner you act, the better your chances of recovering damages and ensuring accountability.

At Edelstein, Martin, and Nelson, we offer free consultations for victims of hit-and-run and pedestrian crashes throughout Pennsylvania. Our experienced legal team will work tirelessly to help you find answers, access medical care, and pursue full compensation. We know how overwhelming the aftermath of a crash can be—and we’re here to guide you through it. Call us now at (215) 731-9900 and let us help you move forward with confidence.