The State Attorney’s Office closed the case against the director of Lively Technical College, Shelly Bell, determining that she was driving safely when she fatally struck a pedestrian near campus.
“In consultation with the [State Attorney’s Office], it was determined there was insufficient evidence to substantiate a criminal charge in this case,” an incident update from the Tallahassee Police Department stated.
“This case is closed, and no further updates will be provided.”
The Tallahassee Police Department has not released details or the circumstances of the accident. A spokesperson said a full report would be available Tuesday.
“It’s an absolute tragedy, but not every tragedy is a crime”
State Attorney Jack Campbell told the Democrat in an interview that Bell was driving safely within the speed limit while on her way to work when the pedestrian moved into the roadway on the late October morning.
Initial story:Director of Lively Technical College strikes pedestrian near campus
Pedestrian’s death:Pedestrian hit near Lively Technical College campus dies weeks after crash, police say
“There’s no indication of any type of impairment and her actions and reactions were all well within normal,” he said. “I don’t know if he was trying to cross the street. I don’t know if he was trying to jump in front of it. I don’t know why he ended up in the position where he was in that lane of traffic.”
Bell hit the unidentified man in the 500 block of Appleyard Drive near the school’s campus, according to police. The pedestrian was taken to a local hospital for treatment. About two weeks later, he died as a result of his injuries.
“It’s an absolute tragedy, but not every tragedy is a crime,” said Campbell. “I’m sorry for the people who have lost their family, but charging a crime would not make this better, nor is it appropriate based on the facts and evidence.”