Carmichael Driver Linked in Pedestrian Fatality

A North Highlands woman was killed Sunday when she was struck by a car moving southbound along Watt Avenue just north of Barberry Lane.

Highway Patrol investigators are still trying to determine why Laura Barnes, 54, ran across Watt Ave directly into the path of a 47-year-old Carmichael woman driving a Honda Civic. According to CHP, the Carmichael woman was driving in the number two lane at approximately 40 to 45 mph when she struck Barnes.

CHP officials note that Barnes was not crossing in a crosswalk.

Barnes was transported to UC Davis Medical Center where she later died from her injuries, according to a CHP press release.

It is unknown if alcohol and/or drugs were a contributing factor in the collision pending a toxicology report. The collision is still under investigation.