Redwood City, CA (June 22, 2026) – A pedestrian lost their life after being struck by an SUV early on Saturday morning, June 20, on Highway 101 in Redwood City.
According to reports, the fatal accident happened at about 4:42 a.m. just south of Whipple Road. A preliminary investigation found that the person was walking and running through traffic lanes on the northbound side of the highway before being hit by a Mazda SUV traveling in the far-left lane.
Emergency units arrived and pronounced the person dead at the roadway. The Mazda driver was not hurt. Northbound lanes of Highway 101 were shut down for approximately one hour while crews worked in the roadway, and traffic later resumed.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been released. Investigators are still working to determine the factors that led to the collision. Questions surrounding the circumstances leading up to the fatality are still being examined.
We share our heartfelt sympathies with the family and friends mourning this loss.
Why Pedestrian Fatalities on High-Speed Highways Are Especially Dangerous
Pedestrian encounters on high-speed highways usually result in severe outcomes because drivers have very little time to react. Unlike city streets, highways are designed for continuous traffic flow at higher speeds, reducing opportunities for motorists to stop or safely maneuver around unexpected hazards.
Several factors are commonly reviewed after a pedestrian-related roadway death. These can include visibility conditions, roadway lighting, vehicle speed, traffic patterns, and the pedestrian’s position on the highway. Investigators may also examine whether any obstructions, weather conditions, or roadway features contributed to the circumstances.
Highway pedestrian fatalities remain a significant traffic safety concern nationwide. Safety experts frequently emphasize the importance of staying out of travel lanes whenever possible and seeking assistance from designated emergency services when stranded near busy roadways. Understanding how these tragedies occur can help identify measures that may reduce similar losses in the future.
