ESCONDIDO, CA (November 14, 2025) — An 11-year-old Escondido boy who was struck by a hit-and-run driver Wednesday evening died on Thanksgiving morning at the hospital. The family identified him as Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz. Police have arrested 44-year-old Hector Balderas Amador of Escondido in connection with the boy’s death.
Accident Details: Escondido Police officers responded Wednesday at about 5 p.m. to the 400 block of East Washington Avenue, at the intersection of Hickory Street. Officers found Aiden injured in the roadway in front of his house after being struck by a vehicle, according to Lt. Craig Miller. Witnesses said Aiden had gone into the street to retrieve a soccer ball when the collision occurred.
His mother María de Paz said she ran outside after hearing a crash and a car alarm. She discovered Aiden lying in the street, unconscious and severely injured. She said his pulse was very weak and that bystanders came to help, but no one witnessed the collision. The driver left without stopping.
Aiden was transported to Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego, where he died on Thanksgiving morning. His family described him as a good student who filled their home with happiness. His mother said he was friendly and well-loved by everyone who knew him.
Following the crash, memorial items appeared at the scene where neighbors held a vigil.
Investigation: Escondido Police officers arrested Balderas Amador on Saturday. He was booked into the Vista Detention Facility on suspicion of felony hit and run causing death. The vehicle involved in the crash was also recovered.
Escondido Police Chief Ken Plunkett thanked the community for helping investigators identify and arrest the driver. Balderas Amador was held on $100,000 bail, with an arraignment scheduled for Wednesday in Vista Superior Court.
Legal Considerations: Drivers who strike children and leave the scene face felony charges carrying substantial prison sentences. California law mandates that drivers stop immediately after any collision, especially when someone is injured or killed.
Residential streets where children live and play require heightened driver awareness. Children chasing balls or toys into the street represent a foreseeable risk that drivers must watch for and be prepared to avoid, particularly in neighborhoods.
Families mourning children killed by fleeing drivers experience compounded trauma from both the loss and the driver’s decision to abandon the victim. Wrongful death claims can pursue compensation for burial costs, the child’s suffering before death, and the permanent absence of the relationship the family will never have.
When a driver is identified and arrested, families gain some measure of closure and the ability to seek accountability through criminal court proceedings and civil litigation. The community’s assistance in locating the driver reflected the impact Aiden had on those who knew him.
Our deepest sympathies to María de Paz and everyone grieving the loss of Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz.
Source: NBC San Diego