Graham crosswalk crash injures two, driver cited for failure to yield

Shortly after 6 15 p.m. on December 12 a vehicle driven by 26 year old Khaydija Poole entered the marked crosswalk at the intersection of North Main Street and Court Square and struck two pedestrians. Both victims were transported to an area hospital with injuries that were not life threatening. The Graham Police Department cited the driver for failure to yield. Police said impairment was not suspected and that their investigation remains ongoing.

The collision occurred in downtown Graham during evening hours when pedestrian activity often increases. The location is a central point for businesses and civic activity, and the incident raises immediate questions about crosswalk visibility and traffic behavior near Court Square. City and county officials who oversee street design and public safety will face pressure from residents and merchants to assess whether current markings lighting and controls adequately protect people on foot.

Graham police emphasized distracted driving as a common risk and urged caution for both drivers and pedestrians in crosswalk areas. That advisory aligns with broader traffic safety priorities that combine enforcement public education and engineering changes. For local officials the event offers a policy prompt to review measures such as signage signal timing lighting and targeted enforcement near high foot traffic corridors.

For residents the collision is a reminder of everyday risk in the downtown core. Pedestrians should exercise caution when using marked crossings and avoid assumptions about driver behavior. Drivers should yield to pedestrians in crosswalks remain attentive and obey posted controls. Community members concerned about safety can raise the issue with city staff at upcoming meetings and request a formal review of crosswalks and pedestrian safety investments.

As the police investigation continues the case will determine any further legal action and whether additional recommendations will be issued about pedestrian protections downtown. The incident highlights the practical intersection of enforcement infrastructure and commuter behavior that shapes safety outcomes for Alamance County residents.