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PACIFIC BEACH, San Diego County, Calif., Nov. 6, 2026 — A 59-year-old woman died on Thursday morning, November 5, after a crash at Mission Boulevard and Grand Avenue in the Pacific Beach area of San Diego, according to the San Diego Police Department. A driver now faces a suspected DUI charge in connection with the crash.
The crash happened around 6:20 a.m. when a 41-year-old man was driving a Ford Fusion north on Mission Boulevard at a high rate of speed. At the same time, a woman driving a Toyota Camry was stopped on westbound Grand Avenue, reportedly preparing to turn right onto northbound Mission Boulevard.
For reasons still under investigation, the Ford Fusion veered to the right and struck the driver's side door of the Camry. The woman was taken by ambulance to a hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. Her identity has not been released.
The crash closed roads in the area for several hours while crews worked the scene; the roadway has since reopened. The department's Traffic Division is handling the investigation and said the driver of the Ford Fusion was arrested on suspicion of DUI. The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information has been asked to contact police.
We are deeply sorry for the loss suffered by the victim's family.
Intersection Crashes in California
This fatal crash happened at Mission Boulevard and Grand Avenue in Pacific Beach, CA. Our California intersections page covers intersection crashes across California.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do impaired-driving crashes tend to happen most?
Crashes involving an impaired driver are reported more frequently overnight and in the early morning hours, when some drivers are returning from a night out or may still be impaired from drinking hours earlier.
Is driving after just a few drinks really risky?
Yes. Even blood alcohol levels below the legal limit can slow reaction time and affect judgment, which raises crash risk well before someone would describe themselves as drunk.
What's a good way to avoid driving after drinking?
Plan by arranging a rideshare, a designated driver, or a place to stay before drinking begins, rather than deciding after alcohol is already a factor.
What should I do if I think a nearby driver is impaired?
Keep a safe distance, avoid trying to pass or signal the driver, and call 911 with a location and vehicle description so officers can respond.
