Police: Heavy snow, dark clothing likely factors in nighttime car v. pedestrian ax

Harrison Thorp 5:48 a.m.


Police: Heavy snow, dark clothing likely factors in nighttime car v. pedestrian ax

ROCHESTER - A pedestrian was struck in the early morning hours of Monday during an overnight snowstorm that ended up dumping about a foot across much of the region.
The accident occurred around 3 a.m. in the area of Washington Street and the Rochester Crossing.
Police say the pedestrian was wearing dark clothing and walking in the roadway when he was struck by a 2017 Subaru Outback, operated by Elaine Perkins, 71, of Strafford.
"The operator did not appear to be speeding and did not appear to be under the influence," Rochester Police Capt. Todd Pinkham told The Voice on Tuesday. "It appears as if she was unable to see the male due to the snow and dark clothing."
The pedestrian who was hit was identified as Luis Sanchez, 42, of Rochester, who was transported to Frisbie Memorial Hospital for treatment of what were described as nonlife threatening injuries.
An on scene investigation led to a brief closure of the Washington Street.
Monday's daylong snow led to some 17 accidents on city roads, not a record, "though it was a lot," Pinkham noted.