San Francisco, CA (March 28, 2026) – A pedestrian died, and another person was injured after a vehicle struck them and crashed into a building at the corner of Jackson St and Beckett St in San Francisco’s Chinatown.
Emergency units responded to the scene at about 7:44 a.m. on Friday, March 27. Officials reported that a silver SUV struck two pedestrians before crashing into the front of New Lun Ting Cafe along Jackson St.
The vehicle came to rest partially lodged in the building’s front facade. Responders located two injured pedestrians at the scene and took them to a hospital for treatment.
Authorities said one of the pedestrians later died at the hospital. The second pedestrian was treated for injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
Investigators identified the driver as a 76-year-old man who remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. Early findings indicate the driver was attempting to park when the vehicle struck the pedestrians and continued into the building.
Officials reported that alcohol and drugs did not appear to be factors in the crash. Building inspectors were called to assess damage to the four-story residential structure.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available. Our sincere condolences go out to the victim’s loved ones.
How Parking Maneuvers Can Lead to Pedestrian Crashes
Low-speed driving situations, such as parking or leaving a parking space, can still lead to serious crashes when pedestrians are nearby. In busy areas with shops or restaurants, people often walk close to the curb or building entrances.
Drivers making parking maneuvers may focus on aligning the vehicle or watching nearby traffic. During these moments, pedestrians near the front of the vehicle may be harder to notice.
Vehicle movement during parking can also involve quick changes in direction. If the driver presses the accelerator instead of the brake or misjudges the space, the vehicle may move forward suddenly.
Urban streets with storefronts and narrow sidewalks can increase the risk of these incidents. When pedestrians are walking near building entrances or curbside parking spaces, even a small driving error can lead to a crash.
