Santa Cruz, CA – A 30-year-old man died after being struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run on the evening of Friday, January 9, 2026, according to KSBW.
Santa Cruz Police Department officers responded to the area near 1700 Mission Street at approximately 9:00 p.m., where the pedestrian was struck by a northbound vehicle.
Emergency medical personnel transported the man to a local trauma center with life-threatening injuries. Despite medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries on Sunday. The identity of the deceased has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
Police reported that the driver, a 39-year-old, initially fled the scene but returned shortly afterward. The driver was arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run and possession of a controlled substance.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information or video footage related to the incident to contact the Santa Cruz Police Department.
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, which includes being vigilant for those travelling by foot and, if a 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 evade authorities, 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.
Santa Cruz Fatal Car Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Santa Cruz Fatal Car Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
