San Jose, California (February 7, 2026) — An 87-year-old San Jose woman has died after being struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run collision early Saturday morning. Authorities identified the victim as Mai Nguyen, 87, of San Jose.
The crash occurred around 6:20 a.m. near the intersection of Capitol Avenue and Longford Drive, according to the San Jose Police Department.
Incident Details: Investigators said an unknown vehicle was traveling northbound on Capitol Avenue when it struck Nguyen as she was crossing the roadway. Police reported that she was not inside a marked crosswalk at the time of the collision.
Emergency responders transported Nguyen to a local hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
The driver fled the scene before officers arrived. Authorities have not released a description of the vehicle or identified a suspect.
Officials noted that Nguyen’s death marks San Jose’s fourth traffic fatality and third pedestrian death of the year.
Investigation: The San Jose Police Department’s Traffic Investigations Unit is leading the case. In fatal hit-and-run incidents, investigators typically search for debris left behind at the scene, review nearby surveillance or traffic camera footage, and canvass the area for witnesses who may have seen the vehicle before or after the collision.
Given that the collision occurred during the early morning hours, the specifics of the incident scene, such as the lighting conditions, the prevailing traffic flow, and the visibility of the pedestrian, will be central to the detectives’ reconstruction of events. Investigators will likely assess whether inadequate street lighting contributed to the driver’s inability to see Mai, or whether external factors such as fog or heavy shadows played a role.
In addition to the crash’s immediate factors, the investigation might also examine the roadway’s permanent design features. This involves analyzing the street’s engineering and layout, including lane widths, posted speed limits, and traffic calming measures. Such a thorough approach aims to identify the driver and gain a complete understanding of the sequence of events and environmental conditions that contributed to the collision.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Detective Keith Aldinger at 408-277-4654 or via email at 4183@sanjoseca.gov.
Legal Considerations: California law requires drivers involved in collisions resulting in injury or death to stop, render aid, and immediately provide identifying information. Fleeing the scene of a fatal crash can result in felony hit-and-run charges, carrying significant criminal penalties. Pedestrian fatalities, particularly involving older adults, underscore the vulnerability of those traveling on foot. Each incident leaves families grieving and communities searching for accountability.
The Nguyen family might be able to file a wrongful death claim if the driver at fault is identified. These claims can cover funeral costs, medical expenses, and the emotional and financial consequences of the death.
I extend my sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Mai Nguyen during this difficult time.
Sources: Press Democrat; KRON4