Novato, CA – On the evening of Monday, August 24, 2026, a collision with a vehicle resulted in Mary Colleen Murphy, 59, losing her life while crossing the street with her dog, according to KRON.
The Novato Police Department responded to the scene at approximately 9:00 PM on Novato Boulevard at St. Paul Circle, near Our Lady of Loretto School.
Murphy and her dog were crossing Novato Boulevard when an 18-year-old male driver struck them. Responding emergency personnel transported Murphy to a local hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
The dog also died in the collision. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with law enforcement officers during the initial response. Authorities stated that driver impairment does not appear to be a factor in the ongoing investigation.
Novato Pedestrian Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims
California law requires drivers to exercise an extra duty of care toward pedestrians, remaining vigilant and prepared to stop when pedestrians are present in or near the roadway due to their heightened vulnerability to severe injury or death. When a pedestrian collision occurs, law enforcement officials evaluate speed, driver attentiveness, lighting, and visibility factors to understand how the incident occurred.
The family of Mary Colleen Murphy may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim following this tragic incident. A wrongful death claim can provide financial relief for medical bills prior to passing, funeral costs, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and other damages related to the fatal crash.
Novato Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was injured in an accident like the one described here, on Novato Boulevard near St. Paul Circle, contact a California wrongful death lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
