Authorities in Springfield have identified the pedestrian who died following a traffic accident earlier this month as 66-year-old Diana Bridgeman, a longtime resident of the city. The Springfield Police Department confirmed that Bridgeman succumbed to her injuries on October 10, four days after being struck by a vehicle while walking her bicycle across the roadway. The tragic incident has left the local community mourning and renewed calls for increased traffic safety awareness.
According to the official report, the crash occurred around 1:30 p.m. on October 6 in the 2600 block of North Kansas Expressway. Investigators said Bridgeman was walking her bicycle westbound across the road when she was struck by a 2004 Dodge Ram that was traveling in the center turn lane. Emergency crews arrived shortly after the collision and provided immediate medical care before transporting her to a nearby hospital. Despite their efforts, she later died from her injuries.
Police said the driver of the truck remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. The Springfield Police Department’s Traffic Unit is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision, including factors such as speed, visibility, and traffic flow. Detectives are also reviewing possible environmental conditions at the time of the crash and any available surveillance footage from nearby businesses to determine how the incident occurred.
Authorities have urged anyone who may have witnessed the crash to come forward. Witnesses or those with dashcam footage from the area are asked to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers by calling 417-869-TIPS (8477) or visiting p3tips.com. Officials emphasized that even small pieces of information could help reconstruct the events leading to Bridgeman’s death and assist in bringing closure to her family.
Bridgeman’s passing marks Springfield’s 18th fatal motor vehicle incident of 2025, adding to concerns about rising traffic-related deaths across the city. Local officials have continued urging drivers to remain cautious, especially near high-traffic corridors and intersections. “Pedestrian awareness is everyone’s responsibility,” a police spokesperson said. “We all share the road, and every extra second of caution can save a life.”
Friends and neighbors have described Bridgeman as a kind and active member of the community, known for her friendliness and love of the outdoors. Her loss has deeply affected those who knew her, prompting renewed discussions about pedestrian safety. As the investigation continues, officials are reminding the public to stay alert, obey traffic signals, and exercise care when navigating busy streets—important steps toward preventing similar tragedies in the future.