Valentine director’s death renews calls for pedestrian safety

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — As the City of Richmond ushers in 2026, pedestrian safety is top of mind for city officials. According to the Richmond Police Department, there have been 13 fatal pedestrian collisions this year.

The issue gained renewed attention after the death of Valentine Museum director Bill Martin. He was struck while walking in a crosswalk on East Broad Street at the intersection of North 10th street. The driver stayed at the scene and charges have not been filed.

The tragedy has since prompted calls for safer streets.

In a final newsletter to residents, Richmond Mayor Danny Avula acknowledged the crash's proximity to City Hall, an area where pedestrians often commute. He's among those calling for change saying in part:

"I’ve asked our CAO and team to immediately consider actions that can be taken to increase safety around that intersection,"

Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards also addressed the need for safer driving, especially within the city.

"If you’re on the highway, you have to worry about other cars," Edwards said. "If you’re driving in a city, you not only have to worry about other cars, you have to worry about pedestrians. You have to worry about people on scooters. You have to worry about motorcycles and bikes. So it’s much more complicated."

He said slowing down remains one of the most effective ways drivers can help prevent serious crashes.

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"Everything gets better when operators are slowed down," Edwards said. "Not only do they have a better chance of avoiding a crash, but if there is a crash, it’s more survivable than if speeds are increased. So what we’re asking our community to do is slow down and pay attention."

Richmond Police are increasing enforcement in areas where deadly and serious injury crashes are most likely to happen.

"What we’re trying to do is we’re ramping up our speed enforcement," Edwards said. "We have officers on motorcycles and in their police cars running radar to slow folks down."

At the same time, Richmond’s Department of Public Works is working to address safety concerns through planned improvements at more than 400 intersections citywide.

DPW data shows 82% of all fatal and serious injury crashes occur at intersections. City officials released two surveys to gather feedback on on making Richmond’s intersections safer.

The first survey focuses safety enhancements that use a “low-cost, quick-build” approach. This includes materials such as paint, flexible posts, signs, and temporary curb elements. The improvements are meant to be adjusted over time based. You can find that survey here.

The second survey highlights quick-build intersection improvements citywide. You can find that survey here.

Residents can participate in the surveys through Jan. 16.