PETOSKEY, Mich. — An 83-year-old man from Saginaw has died after being struck by a vehicle in a Walmart parking lot in Petoskey. The incident occurred around noon on Sunday, June 1, and is currently under investigation by the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say Donald Paul Mitas was walking through the parking lot when he was hit by a vehicle driven by a 24-year-old woman from Alanson. Deputies responded quickly to the scene and found Mitas seriously injured. He was transported to McLaren Northern Michigan hospital, but despite medical efforts, he died from his injuries the following day, on Monday, June 2.
The driver remained at the scene and fully cooperated with law enforcement. Officials said there is no evidence that alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash. “We do not believe intoxication was a contributing factor at this time,” the sheriff’s office stated. No charges have been filed as of now, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Emmet County Sheriff Matt Leirstein offered condolences to the family, saying, “We extend our deepest sympathies to the Mitas family during this difficult time.” Officials have not released information regarding possible contributing factors such as speed, visibility, or distractions. Surveillance footage and witness interviews may provide more insight into what led to the fatal accident.
The tragedy has raised concerns among local residents about pedestrian safety in busy commercial areas like store parking lots, where vehicles and foot traffic often intersect in confined spaces. Some have called for improved safety measures, such as clearer signage or pedestrian walkways, especially to protect elderly shoppers who may have mobility limitations.
Mitas’s death serves as a somber reminder that everyday environments can still pose serious risks. The Emmet County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward as the investigation continues. In the meantime, the community mourns the loss of a longtime Michigan resident and reflects on the importance of caution and awareness for both drivers and pedestrians in shared spaces.