(Hemet, CA) Police are searching for the driver who fatally struck Donna Risner, 44, of Hemet shortly before midnight.
On October 31, at about 11:55 p.m., the collision was reported on West Menlo Avenue, just west of State Street. Risner entered the roadway and was struck by an eastbound vehicle, according to the Hemet Police Department. The driver sped away before first responders arrived.
Responding officers found Risner unresponsive and began lifesaving efforts until medical personnel arrived, police said. Authorities pronounced her dead at the scene.
Following the collision, Menlo Avenue was closed between Alessandro Street and State Street for several hours while investigators examined the scene. Hemet police are handling the investigation under case number 2026-07997. Anyone with information can contact the department at 951-765-2400.
Legal Guidance on the Menlo Avenue Crash
California Vehicle Code 20001 requires drivers involved in a collision causing another person’s injury or death to stop immediately and fulfill identification and assistance duties. Police said the driver left after striking Risner. The duty to stop applies regardless of who caused the collision.
Marked crosswalks are present at Menlo Avenue and State Street, but Risner’s precise position and the circumstances of her entry into the roadway remain part of the investigation. That question concerns the initial impact; it does not change the driver’s obligation to stop afterward.
What the Family Can Do
Refer to case number 2026-07997 when contacting Hemet police about the Menlo Avenue crash. This gives your family a specific reference for updates on the driver search and requests for the collision report. Information from anyone who saw the eastbound vehicle before or after impact should go directly to the department at 951-765-2400.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
