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Oakland, CA (August 8, 2026) – The Oakland Police Department is investigating an accident where a woman was critically injured after being struck by a white sedan while walking her dog on 35th Avenue in Oakland on Thursday, August 6.
Witnesses and surveillance video reportedly showed the sedan traveling at a high speed before hitting the woman. The vehicle was reportedly taken by two brothers, ages 7 and 4, while their parents were sleeping. The crash occurred several blocks from the children’s home, and the boys were found outside the vehicle after the impact. The woman was left in critical condition, while her dog ran from the scene and had not been located as of Thursday.
The police were questioning the parents, who were cooperating with the investigation. No update on the woman’s condition was immediately available.
Our thoughts are with the woman and her loved ones as she receives medical care.
What Happens When a Young Child Gains Access to a Vehicle?
Young children may not have the judgment or developmental ability to understand the consequences of operating a vehicle. Experts say children at these ages can recognize an immediate action but may not fully understand the chain of events that can follow. This can make access to vehicles a serious safety concern, particularly when keys or vehicles are accessible without adult supervision.
When a child operates a vehicle and a crash occurs, several issues may be examined, including how the child gained access, the level of supervision, and the circumstances surrounding the vehicle’s use. Medical and psychological support may also be considered for children involved in traumatic incidents. These situations can affect everyone involved, including injured victims, families, and children who may not fully understand what happened.
