CHICAGO — A gas station owner on the city’s Southwest Side is in critical condition after being run over by an SUV while emerging from a sewer, in what authorities are calling a rare and tragic accident.
The incident happened around 1:40 p.m. Wednesday at the BP station located at 6702 S. Pulaski Rd., according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The 57-year-old man — a Palos Hills resident and owner of the gas station — had reportedly been inside the sewer when he was struck by a 2014 Jeep Cherokee driven by a 26-year-old Chicago woman.
No Warning Signs Near Sewer Opening
The driver told police she had just filled up her tank and was leaving pump 6 when she hit the man. She said she did not see anyone near the area and was unaware of his presence until after the impact.
Police later confirmed that there were no visible warning signs or barricades around the open sewer to alert customers of any hazard. It remains unclear why the man was in the sewer at the time, though fire officials confirmed he was working alone and no safety markers were placed.
Victim Suffers Severe Injuries, Rushed to Hospital
Paramedics arrived on the scene quickly and transported the man to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, where he was listed in critical condition.
According to Chicago Fire Department spokesperson Larry Langford, the victim sustained multiple fractures, including injuries to his neck, clavicle, pelvis, and arm, as reported by NBC Chicago.
Firefighters were the first to cover the open sewer with a manhole cover before police secured the area.
Family Was Present But Did Not Witness Incident
Both of the victim’s adult children were reportedly working at the gas station at the time of the accident, but neither witnessed the moment he was struck.
As of now, no citations have been issued, and police confirmed there were no signs of impairment on the part of the driver. The Major Accident Investigation Unit is actively reviewing the case to determine if any further action or charges will be taken.
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