(Ramona, CA) Authorities have identified the woman killed in a Main Street accident Saturday night, on October 11, as Ashley Dietze, 35, of Ramona, according to the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Upon investigating, authorities learned the crash happened shortly before 9:30 p.m. in the 700 block of Main Street. Dietze and a 42-year-old man were walking when they were struck by a westbound 1997 Toyota T100 pickup truck. Authorities described the area as a dimly lit stretch of roadway with no marked crosswalk.
Ashley Dietze was pronounced dead at the scene. Paramedics transported her companion to Palomar Medical Center with serious injuries. The 19-year-old driver of the truck and his 17-year-old passenger were not hurt, CHP Officer Jasmine Lopez said.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the CHP at 619-219-6900.
Perspective on the Main Street Accident
Crashes involving pedestrians at night often raise concerns about lighting, visibility, and roadway safety. Authorities will investigate on whether either party could have taken steps to avoid the collision to prevent this tragedy.
Because Ashley Dietze and her companion crossed a poorly lit section of the street, California Vehicle Code 21954 will likely apply. This law requires pedestrians crossing outside a crosswalk to yield the right-of-way to vehicles. Both duties are meant to prevent the kind of deadly outcome seen here.
If speed or driver inattention played a role, the Basic Speed Law may also be reviewed. This requires drivers to travel at speeds that are safe for current conditions, including lighting, traffic, and pedestrian activity. Even if a driver is within the posted limit, failing to slow down in low-visibility areas can still be considered unsafe under this statute.
Authorities will continue to evaluate these factors to determine what led to the Main Street accident and whether improved lighting or crosswalks could prevent future fatalities.
What Dietze’s Family Can Do
If you were close to Ashley Dietze, please know that support is available during this difficult time. You can request a copy of the CHP collision report once the investigation concludes to better understand what happened.
The family may also wish to reach out to the San Diego County Victim Assistance Program for counseling and financial resources. Speaking with a wrongful death attorney can also help you explore your options and ensure your loved one’s story is heard as you seek justice and healing.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
