An 81-year-old Lockport man who spent decades educating students in Niagara County has died after being struck by a vehicle on a town roadway late Friday night.
New York State Police are continuing to investigate the fatal collision, which occurred on Sunset Drive in the Town of Lockport, that claimed the life of longtime educator LeRoy P. Smith.
According to State Police, troopers were called to the area shortly after 9:30pm on May 29th after receiving reports of a vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash.
Investigators said Smith was walking in the area when he was struck by a vehicle traveling on Sunset Drive.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and immediately began life-saving efforts.
Authorities said first responders administered medical aid, including CPR, before Smith was transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment.
Despite their efforts, Smith later died from his injuries.
The collision remains under investigation by New York State Police.
Authorities said the driver involved in the crash, a 22-year-old Erie County man, remained at the scene following the incident and has been cooperating with investigators.
As of Tuesday, no criminal charges had been announced and State Police have not publicly released any findings regarding what factors may have contributed to the collision.
Investigators continue to review evidence and reconstruct the circumstances surrounding the crash.
News of Smith’s death has resonated throughout Niagara County where he spent much of his professional career serving as an educator in the Newfane Central School District.
According to his obituary, Smith taught fifth and sixth-grade students for many years and was remembered not only for his work in the classroom but also for his passion for the outdoors and conservation.
Friends and family described him as someone who enjoyed gardening, hiking, boating and spending time in Maine.
His obituary further noted that he was “very dedicated to land and wildlife preservation.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Smith was known as a devoted family man.
He is survived by his wife, Carla, with whom he shared 57 years of marriage.
Although no charges have been brought, that is subject to change.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact New York State Police as the investigation remains ongoing.
Meanwhile, family members, former students and friends are mourning the loss of a longtime teacher whose career helped shape generations of Niagara County students whose life left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
