William Southwick, 75, Identified as Victim in Fatal Mattydale Pedestrian Accident

The Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office has identified the man who was struck and killed by a car in Mattydale on Monday night as 75-year-old William Southwick. The tragic incident occurred around 11:10 p.m. near the intersection of northbound Route 11 (Brewerton Road) and Hinsdale Road, close to the western edge of Syracuse Hancock International Airport.

According to Thomas Newton, a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office, Southwick was walking north on Route 11 when he was hit by a vehicle. The collision resulted in the closure of Route 11 for nearly four hours as authorities conducted their investigation and cleared the scene.

Details surrounding the circumstances of the accident are still under investigation. It remains unclear what led to Southwick walking along the busy roadway at that late hour or the specifics of the vehicle involved in the collision.

The closure of Route 11 significantly impacted local traffic, causing detours and delays. Residents and commuters expressed their concerns about the safety of pedestrians in the area, which is known for its heavy traffic, especially near the airport.

William Southwick’s death has left the community in mourning. Neighbors and friends remember him as a kind and gentle person who was a familiar face in the Mattydale area. His passing has prompted discussions about pedestrian safety and the need for better lighting and crosswalks on Route 11 to prevent future tragedies.

The Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office is appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the accident or has information related to the incident to come forward. Investigators are piecing together the events that led to the fatal collision and are seeking any additional details that could aid in their investigation.

As the investigation continues, the community is reminded of the importance of pedestrian safety, especially in areas with high vehicle traffic. Local authorities may review traffic safety measures and consider implementing changes to enhance the protection of pedestrians.

In the meantime, the thoughts and condolences of the community are with William Southwick’s family and friends during this difficult time. His untimely death serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerabilities pedestrians face and the crucial need for vigilance and safety measures on the roads.