Community
Newport man killed in pedestrian crash remembered for always smiling
A local man killed in a pedestrian crash that occurred on Monday is being remembered.
52-year-old Tim Gillissie of Newport was struck while crossing in a designated crosswalk on Broadway at Bedlow Avenue in Newport at just before 10:30 p.m.
According to police, the preliminary investigation indicates that Gillissie was crossing the street when he was struck by a vehicle driven by a 56-year- old local resident.
The Newport Fire Department responded quickly to the scene and transported Gillissie directly to Rhode Island Hospital. However, despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at Rhode Island Hospital.
Gillissie was being remembered as always happy and smiling. Willing to help anyone. Friends say he turned his life around after getting in some trouble.
Funeral services will be provided by Berarducci Funeral Home & Cremation Care Center – Providence.
The Newport Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident. At this time, no criminal charges have been filed against the operator. He was cited for Right of Way in Crosswalk (first offense) and Operating without Evidence of Insurance.
Police are urging any witnesses that have not given a statement regarding the accident or anyone with additional information to contact the Newport Police Department at 401-847-1306.
Gary Dunn
August 9, 2024 at 12:24 am
These people don’t care how about pedestrians they will run them over I see everyday it’s scary out there
Frances May DiOrio
August 9, 2024 at 3:35 am
I will always remember you, my heart aches, my tears don’t stop, I left you red roses at st Joseph’s church on the steps but I think they went to heaven with you. Breakfast with you was joyful. Your friend for ever. I will pray for your family.
Ryan
August 9, 2024 at 7:23 am
There are no facts mentioned in the article. How can you assume it was the drivers fault?
People are always staggering across Broadway day and night. Perhaps wait for a bit more info before you cast judgement
Kathy S
August 9, 2024 at 10:07 am
You will be missed my friend. I will miss your smile and happy nature. I’m sad that you gained your angel wings so soon. But God gained another worrier. R.i.P my friend 🧡
Carrie Purdy
August 11, 2024 at 6:52 pm
I will always remember him. He was so happy and when we needed help with our car he always came and looked at. We had a friendship i will always remember. R.I.P my dear friend you will be forever missed.
CARRIE WILLIAMS
August 9, 2024 at 5:10 pm
He was not staggering i talked to him 20 min before accident and he was soboer how about u try not judge him
Adrienne EMERSON Givens
August 9, 2024 at 6:34 pm
Dearest Ryan..It was a general statement that person made..if u haven’t been a pedestrian in Newport generally speaking people drive right through the crosswalks either because they do not know the laws or they aren’t paying attention.Stagering, under the influence or not which would be even more of a reason to stop but..thats just me..it’s the LAW!! Pedestrians have the right of way for a reason. Now that being said is this the appropriate time to say such a thing? Family and friends of this man are mourning a death..please try to ask yourself before you comment is this appropriate, or is this coming from a place of anger? Will it help or hinder? Be kind to one another people. I’m sorry for everyone’s loss.
Walter Kopec
August 9, 2024 at 9:19 am
If I don’t see the drivers eyes, then I assume he does not see me. Unlike many who just step out onto the street without looking because they feel safe just having the right of way, I rather walk and drive defensively as suggested for safer travel.
Carmen Scott
August 9, 2024 at 11:26 am
My heart goes out to this man’s family. No master his it happened, pedestrians have the right of way at any crosswalk. I am simply mind boggled at what I experienced yesterday at the same crosswalk. The car in front of me was turning onto Bedlow Ave so I was stopped behind him/her right at the exact crosswalk actually glancing over with a heavy gear at the markings on the road. While I was waiting for the car to turn, not one but so very impatient drivers swerved past me on the right and went around me. I was at the crosswalk! If someone was crossing in front of me, especially a child that they couldn’t see, they would have been hit. No one should be passing on the right on a single lane road especially at a crosswalk. This just shows how easily someone can get hit and it’s not the pedestrians fault. People please be careful. 🙏❤️