Derrick Allen Obituary, Death: Family Identifies Man Fatally Struck by Car on Madison’s North Side

Derrick Allen Obituary, Death – The man who tragically died after being struck by a car earlier this week has been identified by his family as 48-year-old Derrick Allen. The incident occurred on Monday evening at the intersection of Kennedy Road and Northport Drive in Madison, where Allen was attempting to cross the street.

According to a spokesperson from the Madison Police Department, officers responded to the scene shortly after 5:24 p.m. on May 27. When first responders arrived, they found Allen critically injured. He was quickly transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment, but despite medical efforts, his condition remained dire.

Allen’s family later confirmed that he succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday, May 28. His passing has left loved ones devastated, particularly given the many hardships Allen had already endured over the past several years.

Police have confirmed that the driver involved in the collision remained at the scene and is fully cooperating with the investigation. Authorities have not released the driver’s identity or issued any charges, noting that the investigation into the circumstances of the crash remains ongoing.

Derrick Allen’s life was marked by both adversity and resilience. Roughly five years ago, he was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, a diagnosis that carries a grim prognosis. Despite this, Allen remained committed to fighting the disease. His family explained that he participated in a clinical trial that extended his life and gave him valuable time to spend with his children and loved ones. That additional time was something the family deeply cherished.

“He fought hard, every day, to be there for his kids,” wrote a close family friend in an online statement. “Through spirituality and determination, Derrick persevered through his daily battle with cancer so he could be a father to his children. This has been a long, painful, and financially draining process for his family.”

Allen’s struggles were not limited to health issues. He had been working in the catering industry before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted his livelihood. When the pandemic hit, Allen lost his job at Monona Terrace, a popular event and convention venue in Madison. With the loss of employment came the loss of insurance coverage, leaving Allen and his family without the support they needed to manage both his cancer treatments and everyday living expenses.

The family says the financial burden of his healthcare and long-term illness has been overwhelming. While the clinical trial extended his life and brought moments of hope, the cost of medical care, paired with the absence of health insurance, added considerable stress and hardship to their lives.

Allen’s death comes as another heartbreaking blow for a family that has already endured so much. Friends and supporters in the community have expressed their sorrow and offered their condolences, many noting that Derrick was a man of strength and compassion who refused to give up—even when facing one of life’s most difficult battles.

“Derrick wasn’t just a cancer patient or a car crash victim. He was a father, a friend, and a fighter,” said one family friend. “His perseverance inspired those who knew him, and his loss is being deeply felt by everyone around him.”

The family is now mourning his death while also confronting the practical realities of funeral arrangements and final expenses. With their financial situation still strained from years of medical costs, they are hoping for support from the community during this difficult time.

As the Madison Police Department continues to investigate the crash, they have not yet indicated whether any charges might be filed or if additional details will be made public. Investigators will likely consider a range of factors, including road conditions, driver behavior, and whether Allen had the right of way when he was struck. For now, no indications of foul play or reckless driving have been reported.

Pedestrian safety remains a concern in Madison and across the nation, particularly at intersections like Kennedy Road and Northport Drive, where visibility and traffic flow can present challenges. Authorities often urge drivers to remain vigilant and cautious in high-traffic areas, especially during evening hours when visibility can be reduced.

Derrick Allen’s story is one of courage amid difficulty—a man who faced overwhelming challenges but continued to put his family first. As his loved ones prepare to say their final goodbyes, they are remembering him not just for the circumstances of his death, but for the enduring strength and love he showed throughout his life.

In the coming days, the family may organize a memorial or fundraising effort to assist with final expenses. Meanwhile, the community continues to reflect on the loss of a man who touched many lives through his perseverance, humility, and dedication to his children.