Key Facts
Incident: An SUV hit pedestrians on N. Watson Rd., which is near Division St., early Saturday morning. It resulted in one fatality and severe injuries to another.
Victims: Tyler White, 31, died from his injuries; a 42-year-old woman remains in critical condition.
Circumstances: White was helping a stranded friend when the crash occurred.
What Happened
On Saturday, around 1:00 a.m., Arlington Police responded to reports of a crash involving pedestrians on N. Watson Rd. Tyler White and a 42-year-old woman were struck by a BMW X1 while assisting with a stranded vehicle.
White, along with his wife Breya and another friend, was helping tow a car stuck in mud on the road's shoulder. While Breya waited inside their parked vehicle, a speeding SUV veered off the road and hit them.
Immediate Aftermath
The collision left Tyler White severely injured. Breya described how their friend attempted CPR until emergency responders arrived. Tyler was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His wife recalled her final moments with him, saying, “I kissed him. I just laid my head on his chest... because that would be my last time.”
The other victim, whose car was being towed, sustained critical injuries. According to Breya, “She’s still fighting. She’s had surgeries, but she’s fighting to stay alive.”
Ongoing Investigation
Arlington Police are investigating the crash and have not ruled out alcohol as a factor. The driver of the BMW, a 32-year-old woman, was extricated from her vehicle by first responders. Charges are pending based on the results of the investigation.
Breya questioned how the crash occurred: “We pulled off the side of the road. How did she even get that far off to hit us?”
A Selfless Life Cut Short
Tyler White was remembered by his wife as a dedicated family man and a selfless neighbor who often went out of his way to help others. A skilled airplane mechanic, he loved fishing, hunting, and spending time with his three children, aged 10, 7, and 2. His final act of helping a friend in need reflected his generous spirit.
“He was an amazing man,” said Breya. “He loved his family, his job, his friends. He always put others first.”
Community Impact
The sudden loss of Tyler White has left his family devastated just days before Christmas. Breya expressed regret over the timing of the event: “I wish we had waited until the next day. This could have been avoided.”
Friends and family are rallying around the Whites as they grieve. Tyler’s memory lives on through his acts of kindness and the lives he touched.
What’s Next?
The Arlington Police investigation continues. Updates on potential charges or the involvement of alcohol in the crash will follow as more details emerge.
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