A tragic crash in the early hours of Sunday has claimed the life of a 43-year-old pedestrian, leaving the community in mourning and prompting an urgent appeal from Police Scotland for information.

The incident occurred at around 12:35am on Meikle Earnock Road, when a silver Skoda Octavia collided with a man on foot. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but the victim was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow.

The driver of the Skoda was uninjured. The road remained closed for nearly eight hours to allow investigators to carry out a full forensic examination.

Police Scotland Urge Witnesses to Come Forward

Sergeant John Houston, of the Road Policing Unit, said:

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who died at this very difficult time.
We are carrying out enquiries to establish the full circumstances, and I am appealing for anyone who saw the crash or who has dash-cam footage from around the time of the incident to contact us as soon as possible.”

Members of the public can provide information by calling Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0155 of 1 June 2025.

The Role of Dash-Cam Footage in Road Investigations

Police stress the importance of dash-cam footage in cases like these. In 2024 alone, over 1,200 road incidents in the UK were solved with the help of dash-cam video, making it a vital tool for justice and closure.

Drivers who were in the Meikle Earnock Road area around midnight are encouraged to review their dash-cam recordings and submit any relevant footage to the authorities.

Hamilton’s Road Safety Woes Continue

This incident is the latest in a troubling series of road casualties in Hamilton. Notably, a hit-and-run on Bothwell Road in 2023 and a fatal pedestrian collision in 2024 have increased pressure on local authorities.

South Lanarkshire Council has implemented safety measures, including new speed cameras and pedestrian infrastructure, but residents say more is needed. One concerned local commented on Facebook,

“Another life lost on our roads. What will it take for proper change?”

Community Grieves, Social Media Mobilises

On X (formerly Twitter), users shared their condolences and urged others to help.

“Heartbreaking to hear about Meikle Earnock Road. Please help the police if you saw anything,” one user wrote.

Another added,

“I drive that route every day. It could’ve been anyone. We need better lighting and speed enforcement.”

A Wider UK Road Safety Crisis

The UK is facing a worrying increase in pedestrian fatalities. According to Department for Transport data, pedestrian deaths rose by 7% between 2020 and 2024. Road safety charity Brake has launched its “Safer Roads, Safer Lives” campaign, calling for stricter speed limits and better pedestrian protections in high-risk areas like Hamilton.

How You Can Help

• Witnessed the crash? Call 101 quoting 0155 of 1 June 2025

• Have dash-cam footage? Check recordings from midnight–1am, June 1

• Spread awareness: Share Police Scotland’s appeal across social platforms

Conclusion

This tragic incident on Meikle Earnock Road is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of collective responsibility in road safety. Police Scotland’s investigation continues, and the public’s help could be the key to delivering answers and accountability.