A 52-year-old Gainesville man — a pedestrian well-known to many in the northwest part of town — was struck by a car and killed while crossing Northwest 39th Avenue Thursday evening.

Thomas Birt, 52, was pronounced dead following the 8:26 p.m. accident, according to a Florida Highway Patrol media release.

Birt was walking south across the road, also known as State Road 222, near 48th Terrace when he was struck by a 2004 Acura MDX, according to FHP. The driver, Michelle Lisk, 34, of Gainesville, was attempting a lane change to the right lane. The front of the car struck him.N

Northwest Gainesville residents often saw Birt, known as "Tommy" or "Chainsaw," walking along either 39th Avenue or 43rd Street to a nearby Publix, typically wearing a jumpsuit. He was extra tall and had a bushy head of hair.

Colby Thompson said he had known Birt for years and said Birt's brother died several years ago.

The "Chainsaw" nickname came from Birt's loud manner of talking, Thompson said.

But while many gave him a wide berth, Birt could carry on a conversation, Thompson said.

"Nobody gave him much attention," he said. "My family's company did some work in the complex around from his house and he would carry on a conversation with you."

Thompson said he believed Birt and his brother had had a rough upbringing, losing their parents early.

No charges had been filed in connection with the accident.