A 74-year-old man tragically lost his life Wednesday night after being struck by an Orange County Sheriff’s Department SUV while crossing Chapman Avenue outside of a designated crosswalk. Authorities identified the victim on Thursday as Gregory John Beckmann.
Orange Police officers responded to the collision at approximately 10:15 p.m. at the intersection of Chapman Avenue and Prospect Street. According to local reports, the sheriff’s SUV did not have its emergency lights or sirens activated at the time of the crash. The vehicle sustained significant damage to its front windshield during the impact.
Emergency responders from the Orange Fire Department pronounced Beckmann dead at the scene. The collision prompted the temporary closure of Chapman Avenue between Prospect and James streets while investigators worked to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities are continuing to investigate, and no further details have been released regarding potential contributing factors or whether any citations may result from the crash. The community is mourning the sudden loss, and officials urge all residents to remain cautious near roadways.
