Salinas, CA – A pedestrian was struck and killed Wednesday night, September 11, 2024, near East Alisal Street and Eucalyptus Street. The victim, whose identity has not yet been released, was hit in front of a Foods Co. grocery store, according to KSBW.
Authorities say the driver, 27-year-old Jorge Luis Lopez Saenz, was arrested shortly after the incident and has been booked into Monterey County Jail. Saenz is facing charges of vehicular manslaughter, unlicensed driving, and hit-and-run causing death or injury.
The fatal collision occurred late in the evening, and a witness on the scene acted quickly, following the suspect’s vehicle and providing the police with critical information, including the car’s license plate number. This led officers to locate the vehicle nearby. Upon inspection, the car showed significant damage to the front right end, matching the description provided by witnesses.
Salinas Police reported that Saenz did not appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, though further testing is still underway to confirm this. The area of East Alisal Street is a busy part of Salinas, lined with businesses and pedestrian activity, adding to the gravity of the situation.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash as they work to notify the victim’s family.
California Hit-and-Run Laws
California Law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop their vehicle, notify law enforcement, and exchange insurance information with others involved. Failure to do so, considered to be a “hit-and-run,” is a misdemeanor in cases of property damage and a felony when someone has been injured.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Motorists bear an added responsibility, known as the “Duty of Care,” towards pedestrians due to their heightened vulnerability in car accidents, often leading to pedestrian fatalities.
For those who have lost someone in a vehicular fatality, a Wrongful Death claim, made with the help of an experienced personal injury attorney, can provide compensation to alleviate the financial strain of laying their loved one to rest.
If the at-fault driver evades legal consequences, compensation might still be accessible through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Seeking advice from a personal injury attorney can help ascertain the most suitable options in such circumstances.
