Gaston police are investigating a pedestrian fatality that occurred Thursday evening on Highway 48 near the Piggly-Wiggly entrance.

Officer Mike Boone said a male pedestrian who appeared to be trying to cross the highway was struck by a northbound tractor-trailer around 6:45 p.m. The man died enroute to a hospital.

The tractor-trailer driver appeared to be driving within the posted 35 miles per hour speed limit and is cooperating with investigators.

Boone said names are being withheld pending the completion of the investigation. The state Highway Patrol is assisting in the investigation.