Hacienda Heights, California (December 2025) — Authorities have identified the pedestrian who was fatally struck Sunday afternoon in Hacienda Heights as Hongying Weng, 73, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
Incident Details: The collision occurred at approximately 5:20 p.m. Sunday near the intersection of Gale Avenue and Valencia Avenue, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. California Highway Patrol officers responded to the scene and found Weng lying in the roadway. Paramedics pronounced her dead at the scene.
Officials have not released details regarding how the collision occurred or whether Weng was crossing within a marked crosswalk at the time of the incident. Investigators also did not state whether the driver involved remained at the scene or cooperated with authorities. No arrests have been reported.
Aerial footage from SkyCal showed a significant law enforcement presence in the area as investigators worked the scene. A pickup truck was seen on a nearby tow truck, although authorities have not confirmed whether it was involved in the collision.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash. In pedestrian fatalities, investigators typically evaluate the pedestrian’s location in the roadway, traffic signal timing, vehicle speed, and driver visibility at the time of impact.
Officers will examine physical evidence such as debris patterns, impact points, and any skid marks to determine how the collision unfolded. Investigators may also review nearby surveillance footage, traffic cameras, or witness statements to establish whether the driver had sufficient time to see and avoid the pedestrian.
If the driver did not remain at the scene, investigators will focus on identifying the involved vehicle through forensic evidence, license plate reader data, and community tips. Lighting conditions, roadway design, and sightlines along Gale Avenue are also likely to be reviewed.
Legal Considerations: Pedestrian fatalities often leave families with painful uncertainty, especially when early details are limited. California law requires drivers to exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians and to stop immediately after a collision, render aid, and notify emergency services.
If investigators determine that driver negligence contributed to the collision, whether through inattention, excessive speed, or failure to yield, Weng’s family may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. Such claims can help cover funeral expenses and acknowledge the emotional loss suffered by surviving family members, even though no legal action can replace a lost loved one.
I extend my deepest condolences to theWeng family and friends as they grieve this tragic loss.
Source: CBS News Los Angeles