San Francisco, California (December 10, 2025) — A Palo Alto educator is facing a long and uncertain recovery after being seriously injured in a hit-and-run collision while walking in San Francisco’s Mission District late last week. The victim was identified as Erika Yeates, the dean of academic affairs at Lydian Academy in Palo Alto.
Incident Details: According to reporting from KTVU, the crash occurred at approximately 11:15 p.m. Friday near the intersection of 16th and Albion streets, an area known for heavy pedestrian traffic. Yeates was walking with her partner and friends and was preparing to cross the street when she was struck by a gray Mercedes sedan traveling in a bus-only lane.
The vehicle hit Yeates and fled the scene without stopping. Witnesses said the impact knocked her to the ground, causing her to briefly lose consciousness. First responders arrived shortly afterward and transported her to a medical facility for care.
Yeates suffered a concussion, a fractured leg, and a broken ankle in two places. She is currently being treated at Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Redwood City, where she remains in significant pain and is awaiting surgery. The extent of any long-term complications has not yet been determined.
The driver has not been identified, and no arrests have been made.
Investigation: The San Francisco Police Department is actively investigating the hit-and-run. In cases like this, investigators typically analyze the exact path of the vehicle, whether it unlawfully entered restricted traffic lanes, and how speed and visibility factors contributed to the collision. Detectives are expected to review surveillance footage from nearby businesses, traffic cameras, and public transit systems to identify the vehicle and track its movements before and after the crash.
Investigators will also evaluate witness statements, roadway markings, and physical evidence left at the scene, including debris or paint transfer. Because the vehicle was reportedly traveling in a bus-only lane, investigators may assess whether traffic violations contributed to the severity of the collision.
Hit-and-run investigations often rely heavily on community assistance, and authorities may continue canvassing the area for additional video footage or tips from the public.
Legal Considerations: Hit-and-run crashes involving pedestrians are especially troubling because they reflect a complete disregard for human life. California law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop immediately, render aid, and contact emergency services. Fleeing the scene not only exposes drivers to felony charges but can also dramatically worsen injuries by delaying critical medical care.
If the driver is identified, Yeates may have grounds to pursue a personal injury claim seeking compensation for medical expenses, future care, lost income, and the physical and emotional toll of her injuries. Civil accountability cannot undo the trauma, but it can help ensure that the financial burden of a preventable crash does not fall entirely on the victim.
I extend my sincere wishes for strength and healing to Erika and her loved ones as they move forward.
Source: KTVU