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SAN DIEGO, San Diego County, Calif., Oct. 31, 2026 — A man died early on Saturday morning, October 31, after he was struck while walking on southbound Interstate 5 near Old Town Avenue. The crash closed multiple southbound lanes for hours during the overnight investigation.
A man was first reported walking against traffic on the right shoulder near Washington Street, in the lanes of southbound I-5, before callers reported a person down in the roadway between lanes 2 and 3 near Old Town Avenue. The California Highway Patrol said a vehicle involved in the collision was unknown at first, and one car parked on the right shoulder just north of Old Town Avenue reportedly left the scene before officers could gather information from the driver. A white Toyota Corolla was later found pulled over nearby with its hazard lights on, though it was not immediately confirmed to be connected to the crash.
The CHP issued a SIG alert and shut down lanes 2 through 5 of southbound I-5 while officers and Caltrans crews worked the scene. A hazardous materials team also responded for a cleanup, and closure crews remained on scene into the early morning to clear the roadway. Lanes were reopened in stages as the investigation and cleanup wrapped up.
The circumstances of the crash, including whether the driver who left the scene will face any charges, remain under investigation by the California Highway Patrol. No further details on the victim have been released.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the person who died.
More on Crashes in San Diego, CA
The fatal crash was reported at Interstate 5 and Old Town Avenue in San Diego. Local crash statistics, the steps for getting a police report, and nearby trauma centers are on our San Diego, CA crash reports and road safety guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a pedestrian do after being hit by a car?
Call 911 immediately, avoid moving if injured, and try to get a description of the vehicle and driver if possible. Witnesses should remain at the scene to speak with responding officers.
Who has the right of way at a crosswalk?
Pedestrians generally have the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections, but drivers and walkers both carry a duty to watch for each other, especially at night or on freeways where pedestrians are not expected.
How can drivers reduce the risk of hitting a pedestrian?
Slowing down in low-visibility conditions, staying alert for people near freeway shoulders or disabled vehicles, and never assuming a roadway is clear of pedestrians can help avoid these crashes.
What injuries are most common in pedestrian accidents?
Pedestrians struck by vehicles frequently suffer head trauma, broken bones, and internal injuries, since they have no protection from the impact.
