Marina, California (January 28, 2026) — A 70-year-old Marina woman was killed Wednesday afternoon after being struck by a vehicle in the parking lot of a Walgreens store, according to Marina police and the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office. The victim was identified as Renette Baker, a longtime Marina resident.
Incident Details: The fatal collision was reported at approximately 12:45 p.m. in the parking lot of the Walgreens located at 226 Reservation Road, police said. Investigators determined that a vehicle traveling through the lot struck Baker and a parked vehicle nearby.
Emergency personnel responded within minutes and rendered medical aid at the scene. Baker was transported to a local hospital for treatment but later succumbed to her injuries, authorities said. The driver involved in the collision remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with investigators.
Officials stated that a preliminary assessment indicates drugs and alcohol were not contributing factors in the crash. No arrests were announced, and the investigation remains active as police work to determine precisely how the incident occurred.
Investigation: The Marina Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. In pedestrian crashes in parking lots, investigators typically focus on vehicle speed, driver attentiveness, and pedestrian visibility in areas designed for mixed vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
Authorities will examine the vehicle’s path, Baker’s position, and potential sightline obstructions such as parked cars, signs, and landscaping. Surveillance footage will be key in reconstructing the crash. Investigators will also assess if the vehicle was traveling at a safe speed for a parking lot, anticipating pedestrians. Physical evidence can help establish the sequence of events.
While impairment is ruled out, police may consider distraction, sun glare, or mechanical issues. Though parking lot speeds are low, even modest impacts can be fatal for older pedestrians with limited reaction time.
Legal Considerations: Pedestrians in parking lots are protected by California law, and drivers are required to exercise heightened caution in areas with expected foot traffic. This includes yielding to pedestrians, maintaining safe speeds, and remaining alert for individuals walking between parked vehicles or storefronts.
When a fatal pedestrian crash occurs, determining liability often involves evaluating whether the driver exercised reasonable care under the circumstances. Factors such as speed, attentiveness, and compliance with traffic laws governing pedestrian right-of-way may all be relevant.
For the family of Renette Baker, the investigative process may raise difficult questions about how a routine visit to a shopping center ended in tragedy. Pending the outcome of the investigation, they may consider a wrongful death claim to address funeral expenses, medical costs, and the profound emotional loss caused by the sudden death of a loved one. While no legal action can undo the harm, accountability can be an important part of the healing process.
My deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Renette Baker during this difficult time.
Source: KSBW Action News 8