CARLSBAD, CA (October 18, 2025) — A pedestrian was fatally struck in Carlsbad Friday morning, and police arrested the suspected driver after he initially fled the scene but later returned while officers were still investigating.
Accident Details: Around 11:30 a.m., multiple emergency calls reported a serious collision involving a pedestrian near the intersection of Tamarack Avenue and Skyline Road. When officers arrived, they found an adult pedestrian unresponsive in the roadway. Despite emergency efforts, the individual was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses told police that the vehicle involved had left the area immediately following the impact. Authorities were still processing the scene when the suspected driver returned.
Investigation: The driver, identified as 57-year-old Paul Hiniker of Carlsbad, was arrested after returning to the location of the crash. He was taken into custody and faces charges of leaving the scene of a collision resulting in death and vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence. Police confirmed that alcohol is not believed to be a factor in the crash.
Hiniker was transported to the Vista Detention Facility, where he is expected to be formally booked. Investigators have not yet determined whether distracted driving or failure to yield played a role in the incident.
The identity of the deceased pedestrian will be released by the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office once next of kin have been notified.
Authorities are asking for the public’s assistance in gathering further details about the crash. Anyone who witnessed the collision or has relevant video footage is encouraged to contact Carlsbad Traffic Investigator Ricardo Huerta at 442-339-5621.
Legal Considerations: Hit-and-run collisions that result in death are treated as serious felonies under California law. Even if the collision itself was not intentional, leaving the scene significantly elevates the legal consequences for a driver.
Surviving family members may also have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim, including compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering.
When a driver leaves the scene of a fatal crash, it complicates investigative efforts and delays emergency response. These actions can have both criminal and civil implications.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time.
Source: FOX 5 San Diego