Hayward, CA—According to KRON, an unhoused person was struck and killed in a fatal hit-and-run crash on westbound Highway 84 early Sunday morning, October 6, 2024.
The incident occurred, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), around 5:41 a.m. near South Paseo Parkway.
The vehicle involved, a gray Dodge Charger, fled the scene, leaving behind a critical clue — its license plate. Officers traced the plate to a residence where the car is registered, though no arrest has been announced yet.
CHP continues to search for the driver, who is believed to have been the sole occupant of the Dodge at the time of the crash. The identity of the victim has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward as they continue to investigate this tragic event.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a specific “Duty of Care” towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
If the at-fault driver avoids legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
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.