Bloomington Pedestrian Crash Investigation Identifies Victim Rodney L Arbuckle in Tragic Incident
Bloomington authorities have identified 64-year-old Rodney L. Arbuckle as the pedestrian involved in a devastating incident that occurred late Monday evening on the city’s south side. The collision took place along South Walnut Street near the busy retail corridor, an area known for steady traffic even during nighttime hours. According to Bloomington Police, officers were dispatched around 9:10 p.m. after multiple emergency calls reported that a pedestrian had been struck by an SUV.
Arbuckle, a longtime Bloomington resident, was found unresponsive upon officers’ arrival. Emergency medical crews attempted lifesaving measures immediately, but his injuries were too severe. He was pronounced at the scene a short time later. News of his passing has brought deep sadness to those who knew him, as Arbuckle was widely regarded as a gentle, dependable, and community-minded man who rarely missed the chance to greet neighbors or lend a hand without hesitation.
The SUV involved in the incident was driven by a 39-year-old Bloomington woman who remained on scene and fully cooperated with police. Officers say she appeared visibly shaken but uninjured. Preliminary statements indicate she had been traveling northbound when Arbuckle stepped into the roadway. Investigators are working to determine whether he was using a marked crosswalk or attempting to cross between intersections, a detail that remains unclear.
Bloomington Police have stated that there is currently no evidence to suggest the driver was impaired or distracted, though standard blood tests were taken as part of routine procedure. Investigators are analyzing dash-camera footage from nearby businesses and reviewing lighting conditions, traffic speed, and roadway layout to piece together the final moments leading up to the collision. Officials noted that the stretch of road where the incident occurred has limited visibility once night falls, a factor that may have contributed.
Residents in the neighborhood say the area can be especially hazardous due to the combination of dim lighting and high evening traffic. One local shop owner, who witnessed aftermath but not the collision itself, remarked that drivers often rush through the corridor without realizing how many pedestrians walk to surrounding apartments and stores. Several community members have now renewed calls for improved lighting and pedestrian safety measures.
Arbuckle’s family has requested privacy as they process the sudden loss. Loved ones describe him as warm-hearted, soft-spoken, and deeply devoted to his small circle of family and longtime friends. He enjoyed nature walks, volunteering, and visiting local antique shops—simple routines that made him well-recognized in the area. Those who knew him say the news has left a painful void in the community.
Police have asked anyone who witnessed the incident or has dash-cam footage from the timeframe to contact the Bloomington Police Department’s Traffic Division. As the investigation continues, officials are urging drivers and pedestrians alike to exercise caution, especially on roadways where lighting and visibility fluctuate during nighttime hours. Bloomington residents are now mourning the loss of Arbuckle while awaiting further findings that may explain how the tragic event unfolded.
