Gainesville, GA (April 22, 2025) – A fatal hit-and-run pedestrian crash happened in Gainesville on Monday, April 21. At approximately 11:00 a.m., 61-year-old Phillip Adams was crossing Academy Street when he was struck by a vehicle. Reports show Adams was in a wheelchair being pushed by Linda Tench, 77. Both victims were in a designated crosswalk at the time of the collision.
They were transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in critical condition. Adams later lost his life due to the extent of his injuries. Tench remains in the hospital in stable condition. The driver who struck the pair fled the scene without stopping to render aid or wait for police to arrive. Police later arrested the driver and charged them in connection with the crash. Police in Gainesville continue to investigate the incident.
We want to offer our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased victim. We also hope for the full recovery of the injured party.
Pedestrian Crashes in Georgia
Pedestrian fatalities have become a growing and deeply troubling issue in Georgia, claiming the lives of hundreds and leaving families shattered in the aftermath. While motor vehicle collisions continue to pose a widespread threat across the United States—with over 6 million crashes occurring annually—pedestrian deaths have risen at an alarming rate, both nationwide and in the Peach State.
In 2022 alone, 360 pedestrians were killed on Georgia roadways—one of the highest figures in the state’s recorded history. This tragic surge mirrors a national trend fueled by factors such as urban expansion, distracted driving, and insufficient pedestrian infrastructure.
Most heartbreaking of all is that many of these deaths were entirely preventable. Driver negligence remains the leading cause of fatal pedestrian incidents. Dangerous behaviors like speeding, failing to yield, texting behind the wheel, and driving under the influence are responsible for a significant share of these devastating outcomes. In Georgia, alcohol plays a role in nearly 25% of all fatal crashes, often impacting the most vulnerable road users—those traveling by foot.
Losing a loved one in a pedestrian accident is an unimaginable tragedy. Families are left to cope not only with profound grief, but also with the sudden burden of funeral costs, lost income, and long-term emotional suffering. While no amount of compensation can replace the person you’ve lost, holding the responsible party accountable can offer a sense of justice—and provide the financial support needed to move forward.
At Davies Hothem Injury Law, our compassionate wrongful death lawyer in Gainesville is here to help families navigate the legal aftermath of a fatal pedestrian accident. We understand how deeply these losses impact families, and we’re committed to standing by your side every step of the way.
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case. Let us help you pursue the justice your loved one deserves. Call our brave legal team at Davies Hothem Injury Law today at (678) 780-7817 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can support you during this difficult time.
Notes: At Davies Hothem Injury Law, our team compiles accident information in Georgia from various external sources, such as news outlets, police reports, social media, and witness statements. Please note, that the specifics of this incident have not been independently verified by our team. If you notice any errors in our report, kindly contact Davies Hothem Injury Law, and we will promptly make the necessary corrections or remove the content as required.
Disclaimer: Please be aware that the information provided does not constitute legal advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship. Legal outcomes depend on the unique details of each case. This post is not intended as a business solicitation. For specific legal guidance, please contact Davies Hothem Injury Law directly. Additionally, the image featured in this post is for illustrative purposes and is not from the actual accident scene.