David F. Hart Obituary, Death – A 71-year-old man who was hit by a Citilink bus in Fort Wayne last week has died from his injuries, the Allen County Coroner’s Office confirmed. The incident occurred on Thursday, July 24, at the intersection of Illinois and Hillegas roads.
According to Fort Wayne police, the man, later identified as David F. Hart, had just gotten off a Citilink bus when the accident occurred. Witnesses told authorities that Hart tripped over a curb while the bus was pulling away from the stop. Tragically, the back wheels of the bus struck him as it moved forward.
Emergency responders arrived on the scene, and Hart was rushed to a nearby hospital. However, despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries five days later on Monday, July 29. The Allen County Coroner’s Office officially listed blunt force trauma as the cause of death and ruled the incident an accident.
Hart’s death marks the 27th traffic-related fatality in Allen County in 2025, underscoring a troubling rise in deadly roadway incidents this year. Investigators are continuing to look into the circumstances surrounding the crash, though no criminal charges have been filed at this time. Authorities have not released the identity of the bus driver, and Citilink has yet to comment publicly on the incident.
The case highlights concerns about pedestrian safety at bus stops and the importance of proper visibility and precautions when passengers are exiting public transportation vehicles. Police are reminding both pedestrians and drivers to remain alert and cautious, especially around intersections and transit stops.
David F. Hart was a resident of Fort Wayne. Friends and family described him as a kind and soft-spoken individual who frequently used public transit to get around the city. His unexpected death has left loved ones grieving and searching for answers.
Local advocates for traffic safety are urging officials to review safety protocols at city bus stops to prevent similar accidents in the future. Suggestions have included clearer sidewalk markings, better lighting, and speed control measures for buses pulling away from stops.
As the investigation into the incident continues, police encourage any additional witnesses or individuals with relevant information to come forward.
The community mourns the loss of Hart, and officials say they are working to ensure that such tragedies can be avoided through increased awareness, training, and infrastructure improvements.
