Ventura, CA (March 15, 2025) – Sarita M. Davis, a 76-year-old Ventura resident, was fatally injured while crossing Thompson Boulevard in a crosswalk in downtown Ventura.
Accident Details: According to the Ventura Police Department, the crash occurred at approximately 12:15 p.m. near the intersection of Thompson Boulevard and Chestnut Street, across from Plaza Park. Davis had reportedly begun crossing Thompson in the marked crosswalk from the southeast corner of the intersection when she was struck by a southbound pickup truck driven by a 33-year-old making a left turn onto Thompson.
Davis was transported to a local hospital, where she tragically died the following day, according to the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office, which listed her cause of death as blunt head trauma.
The pickup truck driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. Ventura Police Cpl. David Curtis said that as of Wednesday, no arrests and no fault had been formally established.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: When a pedestrian is lawfully crossing an intersection, drivers are generally required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. In this case, preliminary reports suggest that Davis was in the marked crosswalk when the driver turned left and struck her. While fault has not yet been officially determined, investigators will focus on whether the driver exercised reasonable care in checking for pedestrians, whether their view was obstructed, or if inattention or distraction contributed to the failure to yield.
Police may review evidence, such as surveillance footage from nearby businesses, vehicle speed data, and witness statements. If available, traffic signal timing and visibility conditions at the intersection could also be examined. Additionally, the vehicle will likely undergo inspection to rule out mechanical failure.
Depending on the results of the investigation, Davis’s family may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim.
I extend my condolences to the family and friends of Sarita M. Davis.
Source: Yahoo