Robbins, Illinois – A suburban Chicago man is facing serious criminal charges after authorities say he struck and killed a man riding a mobility scooter and fled the scene earlier this month. Investigators allege the driver was intoxicated at the time of the crash, which occurred in broad daylight at a busy intersection.
Incident Overview
The fatal hit-and-run happened around 12:30 p.m. on January 9 at the intersection of 139th Street and Kedzie Avenue in Robbins, a south suburb of Chicago. Police say a man using a mobility scooter was crossing the street when he was hit by a vehicle that did not stop to render aid.
The victim was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Timeline of Events
According to investigators, the crash occurred as the victim was legally crossing the roadway in a marked crosswalk. Authorities allege the driver continued traveling after the impact, leaving the injured man behind at the scene.
Following an investigation, deputies identified and arrested David Avalos, a 38-year-old resident of Blue Island, in connection with the crash. Avalos was taken into custody on Wednesday, several days after the incident.
Details From Police and Officials
The Cook County Sheriff’s Office said Avalos has been charged with aggravated driving under the influence causing death and leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in death.
Officials allege Avalos was intoxicated at the time of the collision. During his initial court appearance on Thursday, a judge ordered him to remain in custody at the Cook County Jail while the case proceeds.
Authorities have not released further details about what led investigators to identify Avalos as the driver, but DUI-related hit-and-run cases often involve vehicle damage, surveillance footage, or witness accounts.
Victim Identified
The victim has been identified as Sammy Simmons, 63, according to law enforcement officials. Simmons was riding a mobility scooter at the time of the crash, highlighting ongoing safety concerns for pedestrians and individuals using mobility devices on suburban roadways.
Emergency responders transported Simmons to an area hospital following the collision, but he later died from his injuries, authorities confirmed.
Key Facts of the Case
- Suspect: David Avalos, 38, of Blue Island
- Victim: Sammy Simmons, 63
- Crash date: January 9
- Time: 12:30 p.m.
- Location: 139th Street and Kedzie Avenue, Robbins, Illinois
- Charges: Aggravated DUI causing death, leaving the scene of a fatal accident
- Custody status: Held at Cook County Jail
Mobility Scooter and Pedestrian Safety Concerns
Fatal crashes involving pedestrians and mobility scooter users have drawn increased attention across Illinois. Individuals using scooters often move at slower speeds and are especially vulnerable in crosswalks and intersections, even when obeying traffic signals.
Law enforcement agencies and safety advocates continue to stress the importance of driver awareness, especially in suburban areas where wide roads and higher speed limits can increase the risk of severe injury. Alcohol impairment further reduces reaction time and judgment, making collisions more likely and more deadly.
According to traffic safety experts, hit-and-run incidents also reduce a victim’s chance of survival, as immediate medical assistance is often delayed when drivers flee instead of calling for help.
Legal Consequences of DUI Hit-and-Run
In Illinois, aggravated DUI resulting in death is among the most serious traffic-related offenses and can carry lengthy prison sentences, particularly when combined with leaving the scene of a fatal crash. Courts typically consider factors such as intoxication level, prior offenses, and whether the victim was lawfully using the roadway.
Prosecutors are expected to pursue the case aggressively given the fatal outcome and the alleged decision to flee the scene.
Conclusion
The death of Sammy Simmons has left a Robbins community grieving and once again raised questions about impaired driving and pedestrian safety. As the case against David Avalos moves forward, authorities continue to urge drivers to remain alert, sober, and responsible behind the wheel.
If you have been affected by a similar incident or have concerns about roadway safety in your area, share your experiences in the comments below.
