RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) – Court records reveal a troubling driving history for the man arrested for a deadly hit-and-run Thursday night in Richmond.
Folks who walk, run, rides bikes or work near the intersection of Westwood Ave. and Chamberlayne said the 35 mph speed limit is too high. Neighbors believe speed was likely a factor in the fatal accident.
Dr. Norma Murdoch-Kitt, the former Ginter Park Association president, told CBS 6 News reporter Jon Burkett that the area where the man was truck is packed with pedestrians.
“There are a great many apartments, where people’s primary mode of transportation is foot and bus,” Murdoch-Kitt said. “There are also a great number of the group homes in the entire metropolitan Richmond area. And those folks are also on foot and often times not paying attention.
Murdoch-Kitt has worked feet from the busy intersection since 1983. Over those 31 years, she said traffic has zipped back and forth at dangerous, sometimes deadly speeds.
"I'd like to see more radar cars and a little more lighting because there are dark spots where you can barely see people," Murdoch-Kitt said.
Richmond police have not said if speed was a factor in the crash that killed a 53-year-old man 50 feet from his front door.
Barry Mallory was arrested and charged with felony hit-and-run after the victim was struck in the crosswalk.
CBS 6 Investigates uncovered Mallory had three driving violations. In 2006, he was found guilty in Chesterfield of doing 78 in a 60 mph zone. In July 2012, he was found guilty of doing 49 in a 35 mph zone in Henrico. And about a year and a half later, he was found guilty again of going 49 in a 35 in Henrico.
Those who knew the victim said what happened could have been prevented.
"If you don't see it, you accidentally hit it. I'm just sad for both people in that situation," Lynwood Russell said.
Russell remembered the victim as nice man who was helpful and respectful. He said his friend was walking back from the store when he was killed.
