Oakland, California (April 16, 2026) — A 39-year-old Oakland man died after he was struck in a crosswalk by a hit-and-run driver in East Oakland, according to authorities.
Officials identified the deceased as Ambrose Hicks of Oakland.
The collision happened at about 5:55 p.m. at East 12th Street and 22nd Avenue.
Incident Details: According to police, Hicks was in a crosswalk when an Infiniti traveling eastbound on East 12th Street struck him. Authorities said the driver did not stop and continued away from the scene.
Hicks was taken to a hospital, where he died a short time later. Police have since recovered the vehicle involved, but no arrests have been announced at the time of the report.
Authorities also said it remains unknown whether speed, alcohol, or drugs were factors in the collision. The case is still under investigation.
Investigation: The fact that police have already recovered the Infiniti makes this case different from many hit-and-run collisions. The question now is less about finding the vehicle and more about proving who was driving, what that person saw, and why they failed to stop after striking a man in a crosswalk.
Investigators will likely focus on driver identification, vehicle damage, surveillance footage, witness statements, and the timing of the collision at the intersection. Because Hicks was reportedly in a crosswalk, right-of-way will likely be a central issue. If the physical evidence confirms he was lawfully crossing, that would put even more attention on the driver’s conduct before and after the impact.
Legal Considerations: From a civil standpoint, this case may heavily depend on proof of who was driving. In hit-and-run cases, identifying the driver is often a major contested issue, especially when a vehicle is found but no arrest made. The hit-and-run itself may also carry weight; a driver fleeing after hitting a pedestrian can face criminal charges and a harsher civil case, as fleeing suggests consciousness of fault.
Pending the investigation’s findings, Hicks’ family may have a strong basis for a wrongful death claim to cover funeral expenses and medical debts and provide financial support for the family members who are left behind. It can also hold the responsible party accountable for their actions and provide a sense of justice.
My deepest condolences go out to the loved ones and family of Ambrose Hicks.
Source: East Bay Times