A car struck James Branham on Tuesday, Sept. 15 while crossing Main Street in front of Shilling Hall. The accident occurred around 10:30 a.m. as Branham was headed to class. Witnesses believe the accident resulted from a lack of visibility between Branham and the driver.

Ben Woodard, a fellow member of Branham’s fraternity, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, offered some insight into what happened. He stated, “I was sitting on the porch of the house and I heard a crash and then the tires screech. When I turned around, he was lying on the ground a good thirty or forty feet from the crosswalk. At first, I froze and when I saw him move a little, I knew he was alive. People ran up to him and others were calling the police, so I ran inside to get our house mom because she has more experience, and she would know what to do. When the ambulance got there he was in shock, but people were asking him questions and he was answering.” Branham was taken to the hospital and though he suffered no broken bones—to the surprise of many—doctors operated to remove his spleen. Friends and family have been with Branham since the accident, staying by his side, visiting him in the hospital, and sending him messages of love and support online.

Representatives from the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity presented Branham’s brothers at Sigma Alpha Epsilon with a gift on Wednesday. A paddle, the traditional Greek Life gift, was made with the names of both fraternities written on either side of the Greek word for “unity.” A message painted on the back read, “Know that we are keeping you and James in our thoughts.” A few members remarked that, “we hope this is the start of a lot more Greek unity.”

Many at Millikin believe this latest accident exemplifies precisely how dangerous the streets of Decatur can be for pedestrians, even within the ‘Millibubble’. Staff and students are warned that to improve their own safety, pedestrians should only cross the streets within designated crosswalks. The signs and flashing lights help to notify drivers to slow down and look for pedestrians. Students and staff should also, of course, look both ways before beginning to walk. It is not advised that you cross the street any time a vehicle is moving towards you, but if you are in such a situation, attempt to make eye contact with the driver. Eye contact establishes acknowledgement and awareness from both parties. Never assume a car will stop.

Students are urged to keep this accident in mind when crossing the street. These things do happen, and no one is ever out of harm’s way. By following the tips above and listening to your own common sense, you all can reduce your chances of being injured. A fine line exists between accidents and tragedies. Thankfully, Branham avoided the latter. In the coming days and weeks, Branham will recover and eventually return to his friends at Millikin. The staff of The Decaturian would like to wish James the best of luck and a speedy recovery.