Josephine McClese Obituary, Death — Norfolk police have confirmed that a woman lost her life after being struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross a busy roadway on Thursday morning. Authorities released details of the crash on Friday, identifying the victim as 79-year-old Josephine McClese.
According to the Norfolk Police Department, officers received reports of a pedestrian-involved crash shortly after 11:00 a.m. The incident occurred in the 5900 block of East Virginia Beach Boulevard, an area that frequently experiences heavy traffic. When first responders arrived, they discovered McClese on the roadway suffering from severe injuries. Emergency crews quickly transported her to a nearby hospital for urgent treatment. Despite lifesaving measures, officials said she succumbed to her injuries not long after arriving at the medical facility.
Investigators say preliminary findings indicate McClese had been crossing East Virginia Beach Boulevard near Glenrock Road at the time of the collision. While the exact circumstances remain under review, police noted that early evidence suggests she was struck by a car traveling along the thoroughfare. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with law enforcement.
Norfolk police emphasized that alcohol was not a factor in this crash, ruling out impairment as a contributing cause. At this point, authorities are continuing to look into whether speed, distraction, or roadway conditions may have played a role. No charges have been filed, though the investigation is still active and findings could determine if further legal action becomes necessary.
The incident temporarily disrupted traffic along the busy corridor as investigators processed the scene and documented evidence. Crews worked to redirect vehicles away from the crash site until the roadway was cleared and safe for travel again.
This fatal accident underscores the persistent risks pedestrians face when navigating busy intersections and multilane roads such as East Virginia Beach Boulevard. Police have repeatedly urged both drivers and pedestrians to remain vigilant, particularly in high-traffic areas where visibility and timing are crucial for safety.
For residents in the Norfolk community, the sudden loss of McClese has brought renewed attention to pedestrian safety. Friends and family members are mourning her passing, while city officials stress the importance of careful driving and cautious street crossing.
Pedestrian crashes, while often unpredictable, are typically preventable with increased awareness from all parties sharing the roadway. Authorities recommend that pedestrians use designated crosswalks, wait for signals, and ensure clear visibility before entering traffic lanes. At the same time, drivers are encouraged to remain attentive, reduce speed in densely traveled areas, and be mindful of individuals crossing outside of intersections.
The Norfolk Police Department continues to gather information about the crash. Investigators are working to establish a complete timeline of events and determine what caused the collision. As part of standard procedure, they will evaluate roadway design, the driver’s actions, and the pedestrian’s position at the time of impact. Findings will help clarify liability and may also inform future recommendations for traffic safety in the area.
Authorities have not released the identity of the driver involved, nor have they disclosed whether the motorist sustained any injuries. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
For now, the Norfolk community is left grappling with the loss of McClese, a tragedy that highlights the fragility of pedestrian safety and the importance of vigilance on both sides of the roadway. Police continue to encourage anyone who witnessed the incident or has additional information to contact investigators as they work toward a full understanding of what transpired.
