Anchorage police closed the southbound lanes of Minnesota Drive at East Benson Boulevard on Tuesday night after a pedestrian was hit by a vehicle. The accident happened around 8:22 p.m., prompting a swift response from emergency services and the Anchorage Police Department (APD).
According to police, the collision involved one vehicle and a pedestrian who was crossing or walking near the roadway when the incident occurred. Officers quickly arrived at the scene, securing the area and directing traffic away from the crash site. The southbound lanes of Minnesota Drive were immediately shut down to allow investigators from the Major Collision Investigations Unit to examine the scene. Their work involved collecting evidence, taking photographs, and reconstructing the events that led to the crash.
Traffic in the area came to a standstill for several hours as police urged motorists to find alternative routes. Drivers heading south along Minnesota Drive were detoured while investigators worked to clear the area safely. Despite the inconvenience, police emphasized that the closure was necessary to ensure a thorough and accurate investigation.
By 9:50 p.m., nearly 90 minutes after the crash, the road remained closed. Many Anchorage residents reported traffic congestion nearby, particularly around Benson Boulevard and surrounding routes. APD officers were stationed at key intersections to manage the flow of vehicles and assist stranded drivers trying to find their way around the closure.
Authorities confirmed that the pedestrian was taken to a nearby hospital, but details about their condition were not immediately released. Police also did not share any information regarding the driver of the vehicle, including whether they stayed at the scene or faced any citations or charges. As of 10:30 p.m., investigators were still working, and officials said more updates would be provided once the pedestrian’s condition and the circumstances of the crash were confirmed.
Residents in the area expressed concern about pedestrian safety along Minnesota Drive, which has seen multiple accidents over the years. The road is one of Anchorage’s busiest routes, with heavy traffic during evening hours. Locals have often called for improved lighting, clearer crosswalks, and stronger enforcement of speed limits to reduce pedestrian-related accidents.
Police have not said whether speed, weather, or visibility played a role in Tuesday night’s collision. However, they urged drivers to remain alert, especially during dark evening hours when pedestrians can be harder to spot. Anchorage’s fall season often brings low light conditions and slippery roads, which can increase the risk of accidents.
The investigation remains ongoing as APD continues to gather evidence and witness statements. Officials are asking anyone who may have seen the crash or has dashcam footage from the area around 8:22 p.m. to contact the department’s Major Collision Investigations Unit. Their findings will help determine the exact cause of the incident and whether any charges will be filed.
As of late Tuesday night, police had not provided a timeline for when Minnesota Drive would reopen, but traffic officers continued to monitor the area to ensure public safety. Anchorage residents were advised to stay updated through local news and official APD alerts for further information as the case develops.
