Pedestrian Hit & Killed On Wilton Drive

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WILTON MANORS (CBSMiami) - Friends of a Wilton Manors man killed when he was hit by a car on a busy street in the city this week are demanding more safety measures in light of the accident.

Greg Futchi, a well respected musician and singer died on Tuesday night as he was crossing Wilton Drive in the 2000 block. Futchi was a member of the Gay Men's Chorus.

"Just one of the most kind, gentle souls you could ever meet," said Doug Blevins, a longtime friend. "His death might be a real catalyst for permanent change, unfortunately."

Blevins says even though Futchi was not in a crosswalk that's part of the problem. There is no designated crosswalk in that area. Blevins and others say residents are rallying Friday because they have tried for years to get traffic signals, signage, more crosswalks and medians on busy Wilton Drive from state transportation officials with no success.

"We have been asking for things for 10 years and it seems that nothing changes," said Jeffery Hill.

Blevins and others say they're seen 5 people die on Wilton Drive in the past 10 years and that in the past few months several people have been injured. Then came Futchi's death on Tuesday.

The Broward Sheriff's Office says the driver who hit Futchi stopped and remained on scene. Detectives say no charges have been filed in the crash…but they are still investigating.

Concerned residents and Futchi's friends say speeding on Wilton Drive is a major problem. They also say with so many bars, restaurants and shops along the Drive in this popular city, things need to change to protect those crossing the street.

"We're tired of excuses," Blevins said. "Somebody needs to step up to the plate and stop passing the buck. We can't afford to lose another person.

The Mayor of Wilton Manors told CBS 4 News the city has been trying to get the Florida Department of Transportation to put in a traffic signal near the spot where Futchi was killed. The mayor says they just got approval two weeks ago for the light to go in. There is no word on the timetable yet.