San Benito County, CA – On the morning of Thursday, August 21, 2025, a hit-and-run collision claimed the life of an adult male pedestrian, according to KSBW.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 6:40 AM at the intersection of Highway 156 and Buena Vista Road.
Officers explained that a vehicle traveling through the area struck the man while he walked along the roadway. The driver immediately fled the scene before law enforcement or medical crews arrived. Emergency responders reached the intersection within minutes and confirmed that the man died at the site of the crash.
Investigators from CHP began searching the area for evidence, and they continue working to identify the driver responsible. Authorities stated that they do not yet have a description of the vehicle that struck the pedestrian. Crews notified surrounding agencies and requested additional support to review traffic cameras and collect witness statements.
Officials announced that they will release the identity of the victim once they notify his family. The investigation remains active as law enforcement pursues leads to locate the driver and determine the circumstances that caused the collision.
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
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for bicyclists with whom they share the road 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.
Should the at-fault driver avoid 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.
Martin Gasparian is the founder of Maison Law, a California Personal Injury Law Firm. Martin is a graduate of Georgetown University Law School and has been practicing law in California 2004. His practice focuses on helping injury victims know their rights and recover just compensation.
