Joliet: A 74-year-old woman was seriously injured Tuesday afternoon after being struck by a vehicle outside a Walmart at 2424 W. Jefferson St., authorities said. The incident unfolded in the store’s parking lot, prompting an immediate response from Joliet police and paramedics.

Joliet: Police reported that the situation began at approximately 2:18 p.m. when a 37-year-old man driving a Chevrolet Cruze backed out of a parking spot. His vehicle collided with the passenger side of a Ford Escape, which was stopped in a lane waiting for another car to exit.

Joliet: Following the initial crash, the elderly passenger of the Escape and the SUV’s driver exited the vehicle to assess the damage and speak with the Cruze driver. What began as a routine fender-bender quickly escalated into a far more serious incident, authorities said.

Joliet: The driver of the Chevrolet then reversed and struck the 74-year-old woman, causing her to fall to the ground. Police indicated that she was pinned beneath the vehicle when it moved forward moments later, compounding the severity of her injuries.

Joliet: Paramedics arrived at the scene within minutes and transported the woman to a nearby hospital. She was reported to have sustained serious injuries but was in stable condition, with no immediate threat to her life, according to police statements.

Joliet: The Chevrolet driver was detained at the scene and taken to the Joliet Police Department for questioning. Investigators described the incident as under active review and noted that the driver had been released pending further inquiries.

Joliet: Authorities have opened a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. They are reviewing witness statements, security camera footage from the Walmart parking lot, and vehicle positions to determine whether charges may be warranted.

Joliet: Police reminded drivers and pedestrians of the importance of vigilance in parking lots, where accidents can escalate quickly. The department emphasized that even low-speed collisions can result in serious injuries, particularly when elderly pedestrians are involved.

Joliet: Walmart store officials said they are cooperating fully with the Joliet Police Department and reviewing safety measures to prevent future accidents in the parking lot. Staff and management expressed concern for the injured woman and support for emergency responders on the scene.

Joliet: The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks pedestrians face in parking areas, even outside busy retail locations. Authorities urge drivers to exercise caution, avoid distractions, and ensure clear sightlines before moving vehicles to protect all pedestrians, particularly vulnerable seniors.