A Saturday night drive at the intersection of State Route 67 and Scripps Poway Parkway ended in tragedy when a suspected hit-and-run crash killed one passenger and left another with major injuries, authorities said. Emergency crews shut down lanes, treated the wounded and secured the wreckage while investigators fanned out looking for clues. The driver who took off is still on the run, and officers are asking the public to help track them down.
According to the California Highway Patrol, a Chevrolet Tahoe heading south on SR-67 entered the intersection and slammed into a northbound Honda Civic that was making a left turn onto Scripps Poway Parkway. The Civic’s driver, a 33-year-old man, was evaluated at the scene and determined not to be under the influence, CHP told Fox5 San Diego. One passenger in the Civic died at the scene, while another sustained major injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital. CHP told Fox5 the Tahoe driver bolted from the crash site, and the investigation is still very much active.
Locked-Down Scene and Call for Witnesses
First responders quickly blocked off the intersection as tow trucks moved in and CHP collision-reconstruction teams began documenting every skid mark and piece of debris. Investigators say they are particularly interested in any dash-cam or fixed surveillance footage that might have captured the crash or the fleeing SUV. Those images can make or break a hit-and-run case, officials noted.
SR-67’s Rough Reputation
State Route 67 already has a grim reputation with local drivers. The corridor has seen multiple serious and fatal wrecks in recent years, a pattern that safety advocates and local media have flagged repeatedly. Times of San Diego and other outlets have chronicled a string of deadly collisions along the winding North County route.
What the Hit-and-Run Driver Could Face
Under California law, taking off after a crash that causes injury or death is not just callous, it is a felony. Vehicle Code section 20001 allows for prison time and fines if the suspect is identified and convicted. The full statute is available in California Vehicle Code §20001.
How Tipsters Can Help CHP
Investigators are asking anyone who saw the collision, has information about the Chevrolet Tahoe or its driver, or captured photos or video, to contact the California Highway Patrol’s San Diego communications center. Tips can also be submitted through San Diego County Crime Stoppers at sdcrimestoppers.org. Authorities say they plan to release more details as new information comes in.
