Santa Maria, CA (February 21, 2026) – Investigators identified Maria Juarez Moreno (46) as the woman who was killed in a hit-and-run crash in Santa Maria on Saturday evening.
Incident Details: Shortly before midnight on Saturday, February 21, 2026, Moreno was walking across the intersection of Bunny Avenue and Blosser Road when a vehicle crashed into her.
Emergency responders pronounced Moreno dead at the scene.
The driver who crashed into Moreno fled the scene immediately after the collision. Officers located the suspect vehicle and identified the suspect as a 30-year-old male resident of Santa Maria. The suspect was arrested and booked into the Santa Barbara County jail on multiple felony charges.
Investigation: Authorities in Santa Maria are continuing to investigate the fatal hit-and-run crash at Bunny Avenue and Blosser Road that claimed the life of Maria Juarez Moreno. Investigators will examine whether Moreno was lawfully within a crosswalk, the vehicle’s speed at the time of impact, lighting and visibility conditions, and whether distraction or impairment played a role.
Because the driver initially fled the scene but was later located and arrested, officers will also evaluate evidence related to the suspect’s actions before and after the collision, including vehicle damage, surveillance footage, witness statements, and potential forensic evidence from the roadway. The findings will help determine the full sequence of events leading up to the crash.
Legal Considerations: Hit-and-run collisions often lead to both criminal charges and civil liability. If investigators determine the driver was negligent, Moreno’s surviving family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. Such a claim can seek compensation for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and the loss of companionship and care.
Because the suspect has been arrested on felony charges, the outcome of the criminal case may also influence the civil case, though the two proceedings are handled separately.
My heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Maria Juarez Moreno during this deeply painful time.
Source: Cal Coast News