FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, Ill. – A driver fatally struck a pedestrian overnight in Fairview Heights near the scene of a vehicle fire, police say.

The collision and the unrelated vehicle fire happened around midnight Friday near the area of St. Clair Avenue and Third Avenue.

According to the Fairview Heights Police Department, officers initially responded to a vehicle fire in the area that appeared to have stemmed from a mechanical issue. While officers assisted with the vehicle fire, they heard a collision just west of the scene.

Officers immediately responded and learned that a driver struck a pedestrian just moments before. First responders attempted some life-saving measures while requesting an ambulance. The pedestrian was rushed to a hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased from his injuries.

Fairview Heights police say the driver that struck the victim immediately pulled over and was cooperative with the investigation.

Police say, based on preliminary findings, witness statements and officer observations, it is possible the victim had come to the scene of the vehicle fire to assist a family member who was involved.

Investigators say the victim parked his vehicle on the north side of St. Clair Avenue and walked into St. Clair Avenue southbound towards the Metrolink Station just before he was struck.

Police have not yet disclosed the victim’s name or age. Authorities are currently working to notify next of kin.

The Illinois State Police Crash Reconstruction Unit also responded and assisted the Fairview Heights Police Department with the investigation.