Man Dies in San Jose Hit-and-Run; Investigation Underway
Table of Contents
- 1. Man Dies in San Jose Hit-and-Run; Investigation Underway
- 2. Details of the Incident
- 3. the Search for the Driver
- 4. hit-and-Run Statistics and Legal Ramifications
- 5. Preventative Measures and Pedestrian Safety
- 6. What are the penalties for a hit-and-run collision that results in death in California?
- 7. San Jose Hit-and-Run Leaves One Dead, police Seek Driver
- 8. Details of the Collision
- 9. Vehicle Description & Witness Accounts
- 10. ongoing Investigation & Police Appeal
- 11. Hit-and-Run Statistics in San Jose
- 12. What to Do If You Witness a Hit-and-Run
- 13. Resources & Contact Information
Published January 26, 2026 at 10:30 AM PST
Details of the Incident
A pedestrian has died following a hit-and-run collision in San Jose, California, Sunday evening. The San Jose Police Department responded to reports of the incident shortly after 6:00 P.M. near the intersection of Borello Drive and South Bascom Avenue.
According to authorities,the male victim was transported to a nearby hospital,where he was later pronounced dead. The identity of the deceased is currently being withheld pending notification of family members.
the Search for the Driver
Police are actively investigating the collision and seeking facts regarding the vehicle involved and the driver responsible. The incident is being treated as a criminal investigation, with investigators examining evidence from the scene and interviewing potential witnesses.
As of 8:15 P.M. Sunday, street closures were in effect in the vicinity of Borello Drive and South Bascom Avenue to facilitate the investigation. Motorists were advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
hit-and-Run Statistics and Legal Ramifications
Hit-and-run accidents are a serious concern across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), ther were approximately 737,000 hit-and-run crashes in 2022, resulting in over 2,000 fatalities. Learn more about NHTSA data hear.
| Year | Total Hit-and-Run Crashes | Fatalities |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 698,000 | 1,844 |
| 2021 | 719,000 | 2,093 |
| 2022 | 737,000 | 2,182 |
Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death carries severe legal consequences, frequently enough including felony charges, significant fines, and imprisonment. California Vehicle Code Section 20001 outlines the penalties for hit-and-run offenses, varying based on the extent of the damage or injury caused.
Preventative Measures and Pedestrian Safety
Authorities emphasize the importance of driver awareness and responsible behavior on the roadways. Pedestrians are also urged to exercise caution and adhere to traffic safety guidelines. Resources from organizations like the Pedestrian and bicycle Information Center (PBIC) offer valuable safety tips. Find safety tips at PBIC.
What are the penalties for a hit-and-run collision that results in death in California?
San Jose Hit-and-Run Leaves One Dead, police Seek Driver
Updated: January 26, 2026, 09:48 PST
San Jose authorities are actively investigating a fatal hit-and-run collision that occurred late last night on Alum Rock Avenue near Penitencia Creek Road. The incident, reported at approximately 11:15 PM on January 25th, resulted in the death of a pedestrian and has sparked a city-wide search for the responsible driver and vehicle.
Details of the Collision
Preliminary investigations by the San Jose Police Department (SJPD) indicate the victim,a 32-year-old male resident of San Jose,was walking along Alum Rock Avenue when struck by a vehicle traveling eastbound. Witnesses reported the vehicle did not stop after the impact, continuing to flee the scene.
* The victim was pronounced dead at the scene by responding paramedics.
* SJPD’s Traffic Investigation Unit is leading the investigation, meticulously collecting evidence at the crash site.
* Investigators are currently analyzing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and residences to identify the suspect vehicle.
Vehicle Description & Witness Accounts
Police are seeking information regarding a dark-colored sedan, potentially a Honda Civic or similar model, believed to be involved in the incident. Witnesses described the vehicle as having possible front-end damage.
Several individuals reported hearing a loud impact followed by the sound of a vehicle speeding away. One witness, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “It was a sickening sound. I instantly looked out and saw something in the road, then a car just kept going.”
ongoing Investigation & Police Appeal
The SJPD is urging anyone with information regarding this hit-and-run to come forward. This includes:
- Anyone who witnessed the collision: even seemingly insignificant details could prove crucial to the investigation.
- Residents or businesses with surveillance footage: Footage from the time of the incident (between 11:00 PM and 11:30 PM on January 25th) is highly sought after.
- Individuals with information about the suspect vehicle: Any details about the vehicle’s condition, location, or driver are valuable.
“We are committed to bringing the person responsible for this tragic incident to justice,” stated SJPD spokesperson Officer Maria Hernandez during a press briefing this morning. “Hit-and-run collisions are unacceptable, and we will utilize all available resources to identify and apprehend the driver.”
Hit-and-Run Statistics in San Jose
San Jose has seen a concerning rise in hit-and-run incidents in recent years. According to data from the SJPD, there where over 2,500 reported hit-and-run collisions in 2025, a 15% increase from the previous year. Fatal hit-and-run incidents, while less frequent, represent a particularly devastating outcome.
* Contributing Factors: Increased traffic congestion,distracted driving,and impaired driving are believed to be contributing factors to the rise in these incidents.
* penalties for hit-and-Run: In California, a hit-and-run collision resulting in death is a felony offense, punishable by state prison. Penalties can include significant fines,license suspension,and a criminal record.
What to Do If You Witness a Hit-and-Run
If you witness a hit-and-run collision, it’s crucial to take the following steps:
* Ensure Your Safety: Do not put yourself in danger.
* Call 911 Immediatly: Report the incident to the police.
* Provide Details: Offer as much information as possible,including the location,time,vehicle description,and any details about the driver.
* Stay at the Scene (If Safe): If possible, remain at the scene until law enforcement arrives.
* Document everything: If you can safely do so, take photos or videos of the scene and the fleeing vehicle.
Resources & Contact Information
* San Jose Police Department: (408) 277-8900
* SJPD Traffic Investigation Unit: (408) 277-4100
* California Highway Patrol: 1-800-TELL-CHP
* Archyde.com News: [Link to Archyde.com homepage] – For ongoing updates on this story.
