San Francisco, CA — A crash in San Francisco has left a pedestrian dead, and police say a suspected DUI driver is responsible. The deadly hit-and-run occurred around 6:45 p.m. on Sunday, along the 1800 block of Ocean Avenue, according to the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD).
Witnesses alerted authorities after a vehicle struck a pedestrian and then fled the scene, leaving the victim critically injured in the roadway.
Victim Pronounced Dead at the Scene
When officers arrived, they found the pedestrian suffering from severe, life-threatening injuries. Despite efforts by first responders to perform emergency medical aid, the victim died at the scene. The identity of the victim has not yet been released, pending notification of family members.
Residents in the neighborhood have expressed concern about speeding and impaired drivers in the area, saying this tragedy highlights the need for stronger enforcement of road safety.
Suspect Arrested Blocks Away
Shortly after the crash, officers located a suspect vehicle near the 500 block of Shields Street, not far from where the incident occurred. Police said they developed probable cause to arrest the suspected driver identified as 47-year-old Hai Van Le, a resident of San Francisco.
Authorities believe Le was under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol at the time of the crash and intentionally left the scene without stopping to help the injured pedestrian, as per NBC News.
Multiple Felony Charges Filed
Le was transported to the San Francisco County Jail and booked on several serious charges including:
- Gross vehicular manslaughter
- Driving under the influence causing injury
- DUI/drugs with injury
- DUI — drugs and alcohol combination
- Felony hit-and-run
- Elder abuse (police have not yet clarified how this charge applies but confirmed the victim was an older adult)
All charges remain pending as the investigation continues. More details may be released after the District Attorney’s review of the case.
Call for Witnesses
SFPD is urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has surveillance footage from the area of Ocean Avenue and Shields Street around the time of the incident to contact investigators. Information from the public could help build a clearer timeline of events and ensure full accountability.
Community Safety Concerns
Pedestrian-involved crashes remain a major issue in San Francisco. Advocacy groups continue pushing for stricter DUI enforcement, increased road lighting, and improved traffic-calming measures to help protect people walking in busy neighborhoods. This tragic case serves as another painful reminder of how quickly reckless driving can destroy a life.
What Do You Think?
Do you believe penalties for DUI hit-and-run drivers should be even tougher?
Have unsafe drivers become a growing problem in your neighborhood?
Share your thoughts in the comments below — your voice matters in making our streets safer.
