PALMER — Troopers with the Michigan State Police Negaunee Post are investigating a fatal pedestrian crash that took place on Tuesday in Palmer.

At about 4 p.m troopers responded to a residence along Nicholas Avenue to investigate an incident in which a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle.

Investigation revealed Jeffrey Rankinen, 34, was unloading construction materials from a 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche in a private driveway when the driver of the Avalanche, William Judkins, put the vehicle in reverse, and Rankinen was inadvertently struck, police said.

Lifesaving measures were performed at the scene by responding personnel. Rankinen was transported by EMS to UP Health System – Marquette for treatment, but he died from his injuries.

The incident remains under investigation.

Troopers were assisted at the scene by the Forsyth Township Police Department, Marquette County Sheriff’s Office, Richmond Township EMS/Fire and UPHS EMS.