Stacee Lee LaClair Obituary, Death – The Virginia State Police are looking into a traffic incident in Bedford County that claimed the life of a pedestrian early Sunday morning. Authorities confirmed that the collision occurred on October 5, 2025, just after 7 a.m., along West Lynchburg Turnpike, a stretch of roadway located slightly west of Wheatland Road.
Officials identified the pedestrian as 40-year-old Stacee Lee LaClair, a resident of Bedford. According to investigators, LaClair was walking along the roadway when the collision occurred. The driver involved was operating a GMC Yukon, traveling westbound on West Lynchburg Turnpike at the time.
Police explained that the driver first noticed LaClair in the roadway and took immediate action to avoid a collision by moving from the right lane into the left. However, according to their report, LaClair also moved in the same direction, which unfortunately resulted in contact between the pedestrian and the vehicle.
Emergency crews were called to the scene shortly after the incident. Despite their rapid response, LaClair was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Virginia State Police confirmed that the driver remained on-site and cooperated fully with authorities throughout the investigation.
Investigators have not released additional details about what may have led to LaClair being in the roadway or whether any other factors, such as lighting conditions or visibility, played a role. The area where the incident happened is known for having both residential and rural characteristics, with limited pedestrian infrastructure in some portions.
Authorities have stated that no charges have been filed at this stage of the investigation. The case remains open as crash reconstruction specialists work to determine the sequence of events leading up to the collision. State police routinely conduct detailed investigations in incidents of this nature to ensure all aspects — including driver behavior, road design, and environmental conditions — are properly evaluated.
Local residents have expressed sadness about the loss and are urging for heightened awareness among both drivers and pedestrians. The stretch of West Lynchburg Turnpike where the crash occurred can be particularly challenging during early morning hours due to low visibility, according to community members familiar with the area.
Officials emphasized that this tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety awareness for all travelers, whether behind the wheel or on foot. Pedestrians are encouraged to use sidewalks and crosswalks when available, wear visible clothing during low-light conditions, and remain alert when walking near moving traffic. Drivers, likewise, are reminded to remain vigilant at all times and to reduce speed in areas where pedestrians might be present.
The Virginia State Police expressed condolences to LaClair’s family and friends as they continue their investigation. They also encouraged anyone who may have witnessed the incident or noticed any unusual activity in the area before the crash to reach out to investigators.
As of Monday morning, West Lynchburg Turnpike had reopened fully after being temporarily closed while officials conducted on-site analysis and gathered evidence. The police department’s crash reconstruction team collected data from the scene, including measurements, photographs, and witness statements, to better understand the events that unfolded.
Authorities anticipate releasing further information once the investigation concludes. For now, they are focused on verifying all evidence and confirming the factors that contributed to the accident.
The loss of life in this incident adds to the growing concern over pedestrian safety across Virginia, where similar cases have prompted renewed calls for improved lighting, signage, and public education about sharing the road responsibly.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the Virginia State Police have urged the public to contact their Bedford County office with any information that may assist in bringing full clarity to this unfortunate event.
