83-year-old man killed after being struck by vehicle in rural Jefferson County

KBSI FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

MT. VERNON, Ill., (KBSI) – An 83-year-old man was killed Tuesday afternoon after being struck by a vehicle in his yard in rural Jefferson County, authorities said.

Deputies responded about 2:30 p.m. to the 16000 block of North Casey Pike Lane, where they found Charles Cimera unresponsive with severe injuries. Investigators said Cimera was struck by a 2009 Mercedes driven by 75-year-old Veena K. Gupta of Mt. Vernon.

According to the sheriff’s office, Gupta’s vehicle left Casey Pike Lane, struck Cimera in his yard and then hit a tree before stopping in a neighboring property. Cimera was pronounced dead at the scene by the Jefferson County coroner.

Gupta was cited for failure to reduce speed to avoid a motor vehicle crash and was issued a mandatory court appearance.

The Illinois State Police Crash Reconstruction Unit is assisting sheriff’s detectives with the investigation, which remains ongoing.

Cimera’s family said they are coping with the trauma of his death and requested privacy as they grieve.