Virginia Tech student killed in Blacksburg crash

BLACKSBURG, Va. (WDBJ) - A Virginia Tech student died at a hospital, where he was being treated for injuries sustained in a crash.

At 3:21 p.m. Saturday, March 29, 2025, Blacksburg Police, plus the Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad and Blacksburg Fire Department, were called to a vehicle crash in the 200 block of Prices Fork Road.

First responders found two vehicles were involved, according to Blacksburg Police. Investigators with the Montgomery County Regional Crash Team determined the victim was on the sidewalk when he was hit by one of the cars involved in the crash.

The pedestrian has been identified as Franklin S. Zhang of Canada. Virginia Tech confirms he was a first-year student majoring in engineering.

Police have not released information about any injuries to anyone in either vehicle.

Anyone with information regarding this crash is encouraged to contact the Blacksburg Police Department at (540) 443-1400 or remain anonymous by calling the Blacksburg Police Tip Line at (540) 961-1819.