Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – A pedestrian out on her lunch break was struck and killed on Thanksgiving after a speeding driver plowed into her and then fled the scene, only to crash into another vehicle moments later, according to police. Authorities say the chain of collisions left one woman dead and another hospitalized, while the accused driver attempted to escape on foot before being taken into custody.
Fatal Collision at Busy Market Street Intersection
Investigators say Rosa Mar Espinosa Rodas, 41, was crossing Market Street at 36th Street when a 2012 Honda Accord driven by Shamir Miller, 30, barreled into her. Witnesses reported the impact was severe, and the driver allegedly made no attempt to stop.
Paramedics responded quickly but were unable to revive Espinosa Rodas. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police say she had just stepped out for her lunch break from a nearby workplace, a route she reportedly walked daily.
Driver Allegedly Flees and Causes Second Crash
Authorities say Miller continued speeding down Market Street after striking Espinosa Rodas. Only two blocks away—near 34th Street—he allegedly slammed into a 2013 Buick LaCrosse, injuring the motorist inside.
The driver of the Buick suffered neck and back injuries and was hospitalized in stable condition over the weekend.
According to police reports, Miller exited the Honda immediately after the second crash and attempted to run. Officers chased him on foot and apprehended him near 32nd and Market Streets.
Victim Remembered as a Nicaraguan Immigrant Working in Philadelphia
Espinosa Rodas was originally from Nicaragua and had been living and working in Philadelphia. International outlets, including Nicaraguan news platforms Articulo 66 and Pixel Channel Nicaragua, reported that her family is attempting to raise funds so her remains can be returned home for burial.
Those media reports also allege that the driver was speeding and driving aggressively before the collision, though police have not publicly confirmed the cause of the crashes.
Charges Filed Against the Accused Driver
Authorities have charged Miller with murder, homicide by vehicle, and aggravated assault in connection with the deadly hit-and-run and subsequent crash. Additional traffic-related charges may follow as the investigation continues.
As of the latest update, police have not released details regarding Miller’s next court appearance.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
The back-to-back crashes on a heavily traveled stretch of Market Street have renewed concerns about pedestrian safety and reckless driving in busy urban corridors. Local advocates say the incident highlights how high-speed driving in pedestrian-dense areas can quickly turn deadly.
City transportation data shows that Market Street consistently ranks among Philadelphia’s high-injury network roadways, where severe crashes occur at a disproportionate rate compared to other streets.
Authorities urge drivers to reduce speeds, avoid distractions, and remain vigilant—particularly during holiday periods when pedestrian traffic can increase.
Conclusion
A routine lunch break turned tragic for Espinosa Rodas, whose death has shaken both the local Philadelphia community and her family overseas. With serious charges now filed against the accused driver, investigators are continuing to piece together what led to the fatal sequence of events.
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