According to reports, two Parkland Hospital employees were crossing the street (in a crosswalk) at the intersection of Harry Hines Boulevard and Medical District Drive when the driver of a privately owned shuttle bus struck the pair at 6:54 a.m. The male victim has been identified as longtime Parkland employee Randal Dygert.
The bus was carrying passengers and heading northbound on Harry Hines, apparently on the way to drop a patient off at the hospital. Authorities say that the bus did not stop immediately after hitting the pair, and actually dragged the male victim about 50 yards before finally coming to a stop.
61-year-old Randal Dygert was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. The female victim was reportedly stable and taken to parkland, but her condition is unknown at this point. Both victims were employees at Parkland Hospital.
Parkland Hospital’s President & CEO, Fred Cerise, released the following statement. “We are absolutely devastated by this tragedy. Our hearts go out to the families and colleagues of both employees. During this incredibly difficult time, I ask you to keep them in your thoughts and prayers, and please respect the privacy of all involved.”
Police are currently investigating the cause of the auto-pedestrian accident, and will determine what (if any) charges will be filed against the driver.