Huntington Beach, CA (March 18, 2024) – A tragic incident occurred early Monday morning in Huntington Beach, resulting in the death of a 57-year-old woman, identified by friends as Norma Solon. The accident happened around 6:30 a.m. at the intersection of Heil Avenue and Bradbury Lane when Solon was struck by a white 2014 Mazda 6 while she was possibly trying to feed some ducks.
Incident Details: According to the Huntington Beach Police Department, the driver of the Mazda, a 61-year-old man from Huntington Beach, remained at the scene and fully cooperated with the investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that drugs and alcohol were not factors in the crash. The investigation revealed that the Mazda was traveling westbound on Heil Avenue, just west of Bradbury Lane, when it collided with Solon, who was not in a crosswalk at the time. Authorities also believe that another vehicle, a white SUV, may be involved in the accident but didn’t stop.
It appears Solon may have been in the roadway attending to ducks, with one duck found dead and another injured at the scene. Officers discovered Solon’s car nearby and her black cart in the middle of the road, containing bread and other food, indicating she might have been trying to help the ducks cross the street.
Legal and Safety Considerations: This heartbreaking event underscores the importance of pedestrian safety and the need for drivers to remain vigilant, especially during early morning hours. The ongoing investigation aims to clarify the circumstances leading to the collision and determine any potential legal implications for the involved parties. Depending on the results of the investigation, Norma’s family may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim for damages such as funeral expenses and loss of companionship.
The Investigation Continues: Authorities are also investigating the involvement of a second vehicle to determine if the incident constitutes a hit-and-run. The Huntington Beach Police Department encourages anyone who may have witnessed the collision or the events leading up to it to contact HBPD Traffic Investigator C. Houlston at (714) 536-5670.
I offer my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Norma Solon during this incredibly difficult time. If the investigation determines that the collision was a hit-and-run, I hope that the other driver is found and brought to justice.
Source: KCAL