Gardena, California (August 31, 2025) — A 34-year-old woman was struck and killed by a vehicle Sunday night in Gardena, according to local authorities.
Incident Details: The fatal collision was reported around 10:05 p.m. in the 1700 block of 135th Street. Gardena police said a woman, later identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner as Gabriella Bravo, was found lying in the roadway when officers and Los Angeles County Fire Department medical personnel arrived. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators reported that an Infiniti Q50 struck Bravo. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with the police. No other injuries were reported. The Gardena Police Department Traffic Bureau is continuing its investigation into the crash.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: Pedestrian fatalities are among the most devastating types of traffic accidents, often raising immediate questions about liability and roadway safety. In this case, investigators will work to determine whether speed, driver distraction, or roadway visibility played a role in the crash. Even though the driver remained at the scene and cooperated, civil liability may still arise if it is established that negligence contributed to Bravo’s death.
Investigators may also review whether street lighting, signage, or road design contributed to the incident. Municipalities or other entities responsible for roadway safety can sometimes be held partially liable if hazardous conditions are found. Additionally, if the driver was fatigued, impaired, or distracted by a phone, this could further strengthen the family’s claim. A thorough investigation is critical to ensure all responsible parties are identified.
This tragedy also underscores the importance of heightened awareness for drivers in residential or mixed-use areas, where pedestrians may be present even at night. California law requires motorists to exercise due care when approaching pedestrians, and a failure to do so can have devastating consequences.
Families who lose loved ones in pedestrian collisions often face both emotional devastation and financial hardship. The family of Gabriella Bravo may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim if negligence is established. Such a claim could provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and the income or support the victim provided. Because pedestrians have little protection in the event of a collision, the damages in these cases are often significant.
Pedestrian fatalities often leave families seeking both justice and answers about what really happened. While the Gardena Police Department continues its investigation, Bravo’s loved ones may turn to the civil justice system to secure accountability and resources for their loss.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Gabriella Bravo as they grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Source: MyNewsLA