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VAN NUYS, Los Angeles County, Calif., Nov. 2, 2026 — A woman died on Saturday night, October 31, after she was struck by a Los Angeles Police Department patrol car on Woodman Avenue near Bessemer Street in Van Nuys. She was reportedly in a crosswalk when the crash happened.
The crash was reported at about 11:30 p.m., as officers were responding to a call about a possible shooting at a Halloween party attended by hundreds of people. The woman, said to be 32 years old, died at the scene. Her identity has not been released by officials.
Authorities said there was no evidence a shooting had occurred at the party. Some residents reported hearing loud noises around the time of the crash, though it was not confirmed what caused them.
Neighbors in the area described Woodman Avenue as a difficult street to cross, citing frequent crashes and fast-moving traffic, including one they said happened nearby in September. The circumstances of Saturday's crash, including why the patrol car was in that location and whether its emergency lights or siren were active, remain under investigation.
We offer our deepest sympathy to the family of the victim.
Intersection Safety in California
The pedestrian crash was reported at Woodman Avenue and Bessemer Street in Van Nuys. Readers following crash news in Los Angeles County can find more about intersections across the state on our guide to California intersections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has the right of way at a crosswalk?
Pedestrians generally have the right of way in a marked or unmarked crosswalk once they have begun crossing, and drivers are required to yield to them, including vehicles making turns.
How can drivers reduce the risk of hitting someone on foot?
Slowing down near intersections, scanning crosswalks before proceeding, and avoiding distractions give drivers more time to spot and react to pedestrians, especially at night.
What injuries are most common in pedestrian crashes?
Pedestrians struck by vehicles frequently suffer head injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries, since they have no protection from the impact.
What are common causes of pedestrian accidents?
Factors usually cited include driver inattention, speeding, poor lighting, and vehicles failing to yield at crosswalks or intersections.
