Redding, CA (April 8, 2025) – An 18-year-old high school student suffered a broken leg after being struck by a vehicle while using a crosswalk near the intersection of Hartnell and Lawrence in Redding on Monday afternoon. The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m., shortly after school dismissal hours.
Incident Overview: Stephan Thompson, a student at Enterprise High School, was attempting to cross the street when he was hit by a truck traveling eastbound. According to Stephan’s father, Clinton Thompson, Stephan crosswalk light on the south side of the intersection was not functioning at the time of the crash.
Stephan told his father that the truck appeared to be about a thousand feet away when he began crossing, believing he had enough time and that the driver would stop. As he realized the vehicle was not slowing down, he sprinted in an attempt to clear the roadway but was clipped by the truck, resulting in a serious leg injury.
The Redding Police Department later confirmed that the crosswalk light was not working due to a dead battery, although the crosswalk itself was clearly marked. Officers noted that vehicles are still required to yield to pedestrians, regardless of light functionality.
The family has called for urgent safety improvements, especially given the crosswalk’s location near a school, where pedestrian traffic is heavy during morning and afternoon hours. The city has since repaired the crosswalk signal.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: The collision remains under investigation by authorities, who are evaluating whether the truck driver neglected to yield as mandated by law and if other road conditions played a role in the accident. The city may also be subject to investigation if any history of maintenance lapses comes to light.
Stephan and his family may be eligible to pursue a personal injury claim to cover costs related to medical expenses, physical therapy, and emotional trauma, depending on the results of the investigation.
I hope Stephan makes a speedy and complete recovery.
Source: KRCR News