A pedestrian was critically injured in a hit-and-run incident in the Valencia Park neighborhood of San Diego on Sunday evening, November 3, 2024. The San Diego Police Department reported that the accident occurred around 8:02 p.m. on the 5200 block of Imperial Avenue, where a vehicle struck the pedestrian and fled the scene.
Key Takeaways
- A pedestrian was hit by a vehicle in Valencia Park and suffered life-threatening injuries.
- The incident occurred on November 3, 2024, at approximately 8:02 p.m.
- The victim is reported to have a subdural hematoma, a serious brain injury.
- The San Diego Police Department is investigating the hit-and-run and seeking information from the public.
Incident Details
The driver was traveling westbound on Imperial Avenue when the vehicle struck the male pedestrian, who was in the westbound lane. Following the collision, the vehicle came to rest in the eastbound lane before fleeing the scene.
The pedestrian sustained a subdural hematoma, a severe injury that can lead to increased pressure within the skull, potentially causing damage to brain tissue. Medical experts indicate that such injuries are often life-threatening, and the victim is not expected to survive.
Investigation Underway
The San Diego Police Department's Traffic Division is actively investigating the incident. They have not yet released a description of the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist in the investigation.
Hit-And-Run Statistics
Hit-and-run incidents have been on the rise, with a significant increase in fatal cases over the past decade. According to recent studies:
- In 2021, there were 2,783 fatal crashes involving hit-and-runs, marking an 89.4% increase from 2012.
- California has the highest percentage of fatal crashes caused by hit-and-runs, accounting for 10.1% of deadly accidents in the state.
- Pedestrians are the most common victims, with over 60% of fatal hit-and-run incidents involving them.
Community Response
The Valencia Park community is in shock following this tragic incident. Local residents are expressing their concerns about pedestrian safety in the area, calling for increased awareness and measures to prevent such accidents in the future. Community leaders are urging drivers to be vigilant and responsible, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic.
As the investigation continues, the San Diego Police Department is committed to finding the driver responsible for this hit-and-run and bringing them to justice. The community is encouraged to stay informed and report any relevant information that may aid in the investigation.
