Man Using Walker Fatally Struck In Hit-And-Run Crash In East County

SAN DIEGO, CA — Authorities on Wednesday were searching for the driver of an SUV that fatally struck a pedestrian and then drove away in San Diego's East County.

The hit-and-run crash happened at about 6:05 p.m. Tuesday when a dark-colored SUV was driving westbound on Jamacha Boulevard, through a green light, at the intersection with Pointe Parkway in Spring Valley, according to the California Highway Patrol. A pedestrian using a walker was jaywalking northbound, across Jamacha Boulevard, and was struck by the vehicle, which caused damage to the windshield and driver side mirror of the SUV.

After the crash, the driver of the SUV made a U-turn and fled eastbound on Jamacha Boulevard, according to the CHP. While fleeing the scene, sparks were seen coming from underneath the vehicle. A walker was not found at the scene.

The pedestrian, a 70-year-old man, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities found vehicle parts at the scene of the crash and identified the SUV as a 2018-2024 Chevy Traverse.

Witnesses were asked to contact the CHP's El Cajon office at 619-219-6900.