Bloomington, Illinois – November 16, 2025
Authorities have identified Rodney L. Arbuckle, a 57-year-old man from Normal, Illinois, as the victim of a fatal pedestrian accident in Bloomington. He died on Wednesday, November 12, after being struck by an SUV along Veterans Parkway, according to McLean County Coroner Kathleen Yoder.
The incident, now the subject of an active crash investigation, has raised renewed concerns about pedestrian safety along busy roadways in the Bloomington-Normal area.
What Happened
The Bloomington pedestrian accident happened at approximately 7:10 p.m. on Wednesday along Veterans Parkway, between Oakland Avenue and East Lincoln Street. This stretch of road has no crosswalk, according to Bloomington Police Department spokesperson Bryce Janssen.
Police say Rodney L. Arbuckle was hit by an SUV while attempting to cross or move along the roadway. Officers arrived quickly and began providing aid until Bloomington Fire Department crews reached the scene.
Arbuckle was transported to OSF Healthcare St. Joseph Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead at 7:50 p.m. Coroner Kathleen Yoder confirmed that his cause of death was head trauma resulting from the collision with the vehicle.
Who Was Rodney L. Arbuckle? Background of the Case
According to the McLean County Coroner’s Office, Rodney L. Arbuckle was a 57-year-old resident of Normal, Illinois. While detailed personal information has not been publicly released, his identification helps family, friends, and community members begin the difficult process of grieving and seeking closure.
This Rodney L. Arbuckle obituary centers on a tragic, sudden loss stemming from a crash on a busy Bloomington roadway. Officials have not shared additional biographical details, but the confirmation of his identity ensures that the investigation and public reporting can proceed with respect and accuracy.
For many in the Bloomington-Normal community, the news of Rodney Arbuckle’s death has been a sobering reminder of the risks pedestrians face when crossing multilane corridors such as Veterans Parkway, especially in areas without designated crosswalks.
Crash Details and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities report that the SUV driver remained at the scene of the crash and cooperated fully with law enforcement. There have been no indications so far of a hit-and-run or any attempt to flee.
Due to the severity of the incident, the McLean County Accident Reconstruction Team was called in to assist with the ongoing crash investigation. This team is responsible for analyzing factors such as:
- Vehicle speed and braking distance
- Roadway and lighting conditions at the time of the accident
- The exact position and movement of Rodney L. Arbuckle before impact
- Any potential contributing factors involving the driver or pedestrian
Police have not announced any charges or citations at this stage, and no final conclusions have been made public about fault or contributing circumstances. The Bloomington accident investigation remains active, and more information may become available once reconstruction reports and coroner findings are complete.
Public and Community Reactions
Although formal public statements from family have not yet been released, the death of Rodney L. Arbuckle has already begun to resonate within the local community. Residents familiar with Veterans Parkway often note how challenging it can be for pedestrians to navigate certain sections, particularly where there are no crosswalks or traffic signals.
Local discussions—both in person and in neighborhood online groups—have included expressions of sympathy for Arbuckle’s loved ones and concern about pedestrian safety in high-traffic areas. Many community members see this tragedy as a reminder to drivers and pedestrians alike to use extra caution during evening hours, when visibility may be reduced.
While there is no large-scale social media campaign tied specifically to this case, posts referencing a “man hit by SUV in Bloomington” and “Veterans Parkway pedestrian accident” have begun to appear as people share news updates and condolences.
Official Statements or What Happens Next
McLean County Coroner Kathleen Yoder has officially ruled that Rodney L. Arbuckle died from head trauma sustained in the collision. This determination forms a crucial part of the official record and will be included in any further legal or investigative proceedings.
The Bloomington Police Department has confirmed that the McLean County Accident Reconstruction Team is assisting with the case and that the investigation is still underway. Authorities have not released the name of the SUV driver, nor have they indicated whether any charges are anticipated.
As is standard in serious traffic incidents, investigators will compile a comprehensive report that may later be reviewed by the State’s Attorney’s Office to determine if any legal action is warranted. In the meantime, officials may continue to request information from any witnesses who were driving or walking along Veterans Parkway between Oakland Avenue and East Lincoln Street around 7:10 p.m. on November 12.
The family of Rodney L. Arbuckle will likely release a more personal obituary at a later date, sharing details about his life, relationships, and legacy beyond this tragic event.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
