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Pedestrian struck, killed on Interstate 75 near Gainesville exit

A tractor-trailer traveling on Interstate 75 struck and killed a pedestrian early Wednesday morning in Gainesville, according to a Florida Highway Patrol report.

The crash was reported at 2:30 a.m. near mile marker 387.

The driver, Orbin E. Samples, 45, of Dry Ridge, Ky., told authorities he was traveling southbound on the interstate when he saw a person move in front of his vehicle from the emergency lane.

Samples said he was unable to control the vehicle and struck Lawson. Samples was not injured, according to the news release.

Ashley E. Lawson, 28, of Chesapeake, Va., was pronounced dead at the scene.

FHP is investigating why Lawson was on the highway, Sgt. Tracy Hisler-Pace said.

Sarah Kinonen edited this story online.

Rachel is a reporter for WUFT News who may be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news @wuft.org