Lemon Grove, California (October 26, 2025) — A 26-year-old man was killed and several others were injured early Sunday morning following a multi-vehicle crash on State Route 125 near Spring Street, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Incident Details: The fatal collision occurred just before 4:30 a.m. when a northbound 2023 Nissan Sentra veered out of its lane and struck a 2007 Mercedes-Benz E350 parked along the right shoulder of SR-125. Moments later, a 2022 Ford Edge crashed into the Nissan, causing a secondary impact.
Authorities say the driver of the Nissan fled the scene on foot immediately after the crash, leaving behind a severely injured passenger. The passenger, a 26-year-old San Diego resident whose name has not yet been released pending family notification, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Two occupants of the Mercedes, as well as the Ford Edge driver and passenger, sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene. Northbound lanes were temporarily closed as CHP officers investigated and cleared debris from the roadway.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol’s San Diego Division leads the investigation and continues searching for the Nissan driver who fled the scene. Officers have not yet confirmed whether alcohol, drugs, or fatigue played a role in the incident. Witness accounts and nearby traffic camera footage will determine how the initial collision occurred and why the Nissan lost control before veering into the shoulder.
Under California Vehicle Code, it is a felony to flee the scene of a crash that results in injury or death. CHP investigators are expected to pursue felony hit-and-run charges once the driver is identified. Detectives are also working to determine whether the Nissan was speeding or whether distracted driving contributed to the fatal series of impacts.
Legal Considerations: Families of hit-and-run victims may pursue both criminal justice and civil remedies following a fatal crash. In this case, the family of the deceased passenger may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim against the Nissan driver once identified. If investigators find that other factors, such as poor lighting, lack of signage, or defective safety features, contributed to the crash, additional parties could also share liability.
Victims who were injured in the crash may also seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional trauma. Even minor injuries sustained in high-speed collisions can lead to lasting complications that require long-term care.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the young man who lost his life in this tragic collision. I also wish a full recovery to all those injured.
Source: 10News San Diego