A Demopolis resident was killed Wednesday when he was struck by a vehicle on U.S. Hwy. 80.

The Demopolis Police Department, Demopolis Fire & Rescue and Amstar EMS responded to a call of the pedestrian being struck on Hwy. 80, near South Finest Meats. Upon arriving at the scene, police officers found a male victim with injuries lying in the road.

The victim has been identified as Jake “Mule” Rowser, 80, of Demopolis. According to DPD Chief and Demopolis Director of Public Safety Tommie Reese, Rowser was taken to Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital and later transferred to DCH Hospital in Tuscaloosa where he died from the injuries. Reese said many in Demopolis knew Rowser by his nickname, “Mule.”

Witnesses at the scene told police that Rowser was crossing the highway when he was struck by an oncoming vehicle traveling west on Hwy. 80.

“This was just a tragic accident that occurred and no criminal charges will be brought against the driver of the vehicle,” Reese said.

“As the chief of police and the director of public safety, I have to warn the public that when attempting to cross any highway or street, please look both ways. It is always better to wait if you think you cannot make it across in time … just do not try it,” Reese said.