A devastating car crash in San Diego County claimed the lives of two prominent East Bay political figures, Peggy Moore and her wife, Hope Wood, as reported by friends.
Moore, 60, is known for her grassroots organizing prowess. She worked on President Obama's 2008 campaign and was a key advisor to former Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf. Her partner, Wood, 48, shared her passion for politics, and together, the pair co-founded the political consulting firm Hope Action Change in 2019. Their legacy, deeply woven into the fabric of East Bay politics, also included staunch advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
The tragic accident took place Friday night on Highway 76. A Chrysler 300 swerved into the opposite lane for unknown reasons, colliding head-on with a Jeep Gladiator. The California Highway Patrol stated that the crash sparked a chain reaction, causing a minor sideswipe with a Toyota Camry. The driver of the Chrysler, the 58-year-old man at the wheel of the Jeep, and two passengers—among them Moore and Wood—were killed. Another passenger in the Jeep suffered serious injuries. Investigators have not confirmed whether alcohol or drugs played a part in the incident, as per KTVU's report.
A wave of grief has since spread through the community, with figures like U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee expressing their sorrow. "I’m heartbroken to hear of the tragic loss of Peggy Moore and Hope Wood. Peggy was a friend, an activist, and one of the best organizers I knew. Her passion and fight for justice and equality is what brought her and Hope together," Lee said, highlighting their substantial impact on the region and nation. The loss, it seems, will be felt for generations, KTVU reports.
On social media, tributes poured in, with Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson saying, "Such a tragic, terrible loss for our East Bay community. May Peggy and Hope's lives continue to inspire and empower." The sentiments shared echoed a community in mourning, one that has undeniably lost two of its most fervent advocates for change, according to Carson's X post.
Such a tragic, terrible loss for our East Bay community. May Peggy and Hope's lives continue to inspire and empower. Rest in Power & Peace. https://t.co/zCKHydTJQH
— Supervisor Keith Carson (@Keith_Carson) May 13, 2024
