San Jose, CA – On the morning of Tuesday, June 9, 2026, a hit-and-run resulted in a bicyclist losing his life in the Warmsprings neighborhood, and led to the arrest of Nicholas Loftis, 43, according to KRON.
The San Jose Police Department reports that the accident took place around 9:37 AM in the northbound lanes of North Capitol Avenue approaching Gay Avenue.
Authorities said Loftis swerved into the bike lane and struck the bicyclist. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. Loftis fled the scene northbound in a white 2025 Mazda SUV before coming to a stop, and witnesses directed officers to his location, leading to his arrest.
A records check revealed the Mazda had been reported stolen earlier that morning. Loftis was booked into the Santa Clara County Jail on suspicion of felony hit-and-run, manslaughter, and possession of a stolen vehicle. He was set to be arraigned on the charges on Friday, June 12.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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.
Bicycle Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a duty of care towards bicyclists, which includes being vigilant for those travelling by bicycle 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 bicycle 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.
San Jose Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a San Jose Wrongful Death Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
