SACRAMENTO, CA (December 1, 2025) — An unhoused woman died Thursday after being struck by a vehicle while crossing Marconi Avenue on Thanksgiving. The Sacramento County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 44-year-old Natasha Leann Mitchell.
Accident Details: The California Highway Patrol reported that the crash occurred on westbound Marconi Avenue, west of Burnece Street. Mitchell was crossing from the north side of the street to the south when she was hit by a Toyota sedan traveling in the right-most lane.
The driver was a man in his 50s, authorities said. DUI is not suspected, according to law enforcement.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol is investigating the collision. Authorities have not released additional information about the circumstances of the crash or whether Mitchell was crossing in a designated crosswalk.
Legal Considerations: Members of the unhoused community face disproportionate risk as pedestrians. They may cross roadways in unexpected locations, lack visibility due to inadequate lighting or clothing, and have limited resources to seek medical care after crashes. Despite these vulnerabilities, they deserve the same legal protections as any other pedestrian.
Drivers have a duty to maintain proper lookout for pedestrians regardless of where they are crossing or their housing status. When a pedestrian is struck while crossing a roadway, investigators examine whether the driver had adequate opportunity to see and avoid the collision.
Mitchell’s death on Thanksgiving adds another layer of tragedy to an already sorrowful event. While many families gathered to celebrate, hers ended in loss. The fact that she was unhoused does not diminish the value of her life or her family’s right to pursue justice.
Even when DUI is not suspected, drivers can still be held liable if they were speeding, distracted, or failed to exercise reasonable care. Wrongful death claims seek compensation for funeral expenses and the loss of companionship, regardless of the victim’s economic circumstances.
California wrongful death law protects all victims equally. Mitchell’s housing status should not affect her family’s ability to seek accountability and compensation for her death.
Our condolences to those who knew and cared for Natasha Leann Mitchell.
Source: ABC10