(San Diego, CA) Two women suffered serious injuries Saturday morning, January 25, after a driver allegedly struck them intentionally while they crossed the street in a Fourth Avenue accident.
The San Diego Police Department said an officer on routine patrol witnessed the incident around 8 a.m. The collision took place in the 500 block of Fourth Avenue near Island Avenue. Police said a four-door Kia Optima rapidly approached two women crossing the street and collided with both pedestrians.
After the impact, the Kia attempted to turn eastbound onto Island Avenue. The officer immediately initiated a traffic stop, and the vehicle yielded a short distance away near Fifth Avenue.
Authorities identified the driver as Annabel Fernandez. Police said she exited the vehicle and was detained at the scene. Officers evaluated her for possible driving under the influence as part of the initial investigation.
According to SDPD Officer David O’Brien, investigators later learned that the driver had been involved in a physical altercation with the two pedestrians before the collision. Police said the driver left the area, waited inside her vehicle, and then accelerated toward the women as they crossed the street.
Paramedics transported both injured pedestrians to hospitals with serious injuries. Police did not release their names or ages. Authorities said both women survived but required significant medical care.
Authorities arrested Fernandez on suspicion of felony DUI and two counts of attempted murder. Police said the investigation remains active as detectives continue reviewing evidence and witness statements.
Overview on the Fourth Avenue Accident
When pedestrians are struck in an urban area and intentional conduct is alleged, investigators review traffic and criminal laws to understand what occurred, without assigning fault prematurely. These reviews focus on driver actions, impairment, and pedestrian right-of-way.
Because police allege the driver accelerated toward pedestrians, investigators will closely examine the Assault With a Deadly Weapon Law, which can apply when a vehicle is allegedly used as a weapon. Vehicles can cause catastrophic harm, and intent is a central factor when this statute is reviewed.
Authorities will also review the Driving Under the Influence Law. This law prohibits operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Impairment can severely affect judgment, reaction time, and impulse control, particularly in busy pedestrian districts like the Gaslamp Quarter.
Since the pedestrians were crossing at an intersection, investigators may consider the Pedestrian Right-of-Way Law. This law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians within marked or unmarked crosswalks. High-foot-traffic areas demand increased caution from drivers at all times. Together, these laws help explain how investigators evaluate what may have led to the Fourth Avenue accident as the case proceeds through the justice system.
Advice for the Family
If you or a loved one was seriously injured in this accident, staying in contact with investigators can help you receive updates and access official police reports as they become available.
You may also consider speaking with a legal professional experienced in serious pedestrian injury cases to better understand your options. Focusing on medical care, emotional support, and recovery planning can be important steps during a difficult and stressful time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
