A week after 43-year-old Andres Gallardo was fatally struck while riding his bicycle in Clairemont, his family is still knocking on doors and canvassing the block for answers. Police say Gallardo was hit in a Sunday night crash and later died, and his sister, Estefania, keeps returning to the scene to talk with neighbors and chase any possible lead as relatives press investigators for information.
Family Renews Search and Launches Fundraiser
As reported by FOX 5 San Diego, Gallardo was riding near the intersection of Ashford and Hutten streets when he was hit at about 11:30 p.m. The family has set up a GoFundMe to help cover funeral expenses and transport his ashes, and relatives say he leaves behind a 16-year-old son. Estefania told reporters she is doing whatever she can to find justice for her brother and is asking neighbors to check any doorbell or dashcam footage that might show the vehicle.
Why Police Treat Deadly Hit-and-Runs as Felonies
Under California law, leaving the scene of an accident that causes injury or death is a felony under Vehicle Code 20001, which can bring state-prison time and fines, according to California Legislative Information. The statute requires drivers involved in crashes that injure or kill someone to stop, provide aid and exchange information, and it increases penalties if the collision results in death or permanent, serious injury. That potential felony exposure is part of why investigators are urging neighbors to look for video and other clues.
Police: Car Entered Parking Lane, No Description Released
Police told FOX 5 San Diego that a vehicle drove into the parking lane and struck Gallardo, but detectives have not released any specific make, model or license plate information. Investigators are asking anyone who lives near Ashford and Hutten or who drove through the area that night to review surveillance and dashcam footage. The family says it plans to keep canvassing the neighborhood while detectives follow up on tips.
How to Share Tips and Help the Family
Anyone with information can call the San Diego Police Department's hit-and-run follow-up line at (858) 495-7842, according to the SDPD traffic page, or submit an anonymous tip through San Diego County Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477. The SDPD site notes the department follows up on collisions that involve injuries or potential leads, and Crime Stoppers publishes cases and tip instructions online. Family members say they are also collecting messages and donations through the GoFundMe mentioned in local coverage while investigators continue their work.
