Executive Summary
- Sherilynne Hammer was identified as the fatal victim of a hit-and-run crash at State Route 67.
- A pregnant passenger in the victim’s vehicle required an emergency C-section following the collision.
- California Highway Patrol confirmed an arrest was made but has not verified if the suspect drove the fleeing vehicle.
POWAY, Calif. – A community gathered Sunday evening to mourn the loss of a woman killed in a hit-and-run collision that also resulted in an emergency delivery for a pregnant passenger. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is investigating the fatal crash that occurred late Saturday at a major intersection in Poway, California.
According to CHP reports, the collision took place at approximately 11:25 p.m. at the intersection of State Route 67 and Scripps Poway Parkway. Investigators determined that a Honda Civic traveling northbound was attempting a left turn when it collided with a southbound Chevrolet Tahoe. Authorities stated that the impact resulted in the death of a passenger in the Civic, identified by family members as Sherilynne Hammer. Medical personnel pronounced her dead at the scene.
Family members, speaking at a candlelight vigil held near the crash site, revealed that the Honda Civic was occupied by Hammer, her boyfriend, her brother, and her brother’s pregnant girlfriend. Following the collision, the pregnant woman, who was seven months along, underwent an emergency C-section. Hammer’s aunt described the family as devastated by the loss of the victim, who was an only child.
Law enforcement officials reported that a person has been arrested in relation to the incident. However, the California Highway Patrol has not yet confirmed if the individual in custody was the driver of the Chevrolet Tahoe who allegedly fled the scene following the crash. A fundraiser has been established to assist the family with funeral expenses.
Investigative Outlook
The investigation into this fatality highlights the complexities of hit-and-run cases, particularly regarding the identification and apprehension of fleeing drivers. As authorities work to confirm the role of the arrested individual, forensic evidence from the scene and vehicle analysis will play a critical role in establishing liability. Under California law, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death or permanent injury is a felony that carries significant legal penalties, regardless of fault in the initial collision.
It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
