A woman was killed early Thursday morning after being struck by a vehicle on Interstate 76 in Center City, Philadelphia, prompting an investigation and temporary lane restrictions. The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. along the eastbound lanes of the expressway, situated between the exits for Market Street and Haverford Avenue and Spring Garden Street.
According to Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small, the victim was walking on the roadway when the collision took place. While authorities have confirmed the fatality, the identity of the woman has not been publicly released as of Thursday morning. The driver involved in the crash remained at the scene and is currently cooperating with investigators, according to statements provided by police officials.
Multi vehicle crash on I-76 eastbound between Exit 343: SPRING GARDEN ST/HAVERFORD AVE and Exit 345: 30TH ST – MARKET ST. There is a lane restriction. https://t.co/lC6ksL5mI6— 511PA Philadelphia (@511PAPhilly) July 16, 2026
Traffic Impact and Roadway Reopening
The collision necessitated lane restrictions on the I-76 corridor throughout the early morning hours. Following the crash, a lane restriction was in place to facilitate the police investigation and clear the scene. This restriction forced motorists into one lane, resulting in slow-moving traffic ahead of the morning rush hour.
By 6:30 a.m., the lane restriction was removed and traffic was moving once again through the area. Traffic flow on the eastbound side of the interstate returned to normal operations shortly thereafter.
Ongoing Investigation into the Incident
The circumstances leading to the pedestrian’s presence on the interstate remain under investigation. Authorities have not yet disclosed how the woman entered the roadway or the specific factors that contributed to the collision. Because the investigation is active, police have remained cautious regarding the release of further details.
The driver’s cooperation with law enforcement is a component of such investigations. Philadelphia police are expected to provide updates as the investigation progresses.
For the most current information regarding local traffic conditions in Philadelphia, residents can consult the official 511PA traffic website. Further developments regarding this case will be reported as official statements are released by the Philadelphia Police Department.