SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Tragedy struck the San Carlos neighborhood Monday morning when a vehicle hit three children crossing a street, leaving one child dead and two others injured near the intersection of Lake Badin Avenue and Jackson Drive, according to the San Diego Police Department.
The collision occurred around 7:20 a.m., as the children were reportedly on their way to school. Police confirmed that one child was pronounced dead at the scene. A second child sustained a broken arm, while the third was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.
Authorities said the driver remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with investigators. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with officials examining whether factors such as speed, visibility, or driver error played a role.
In a message to families, the San Diego Unified School District confirmed that the victims were sixth-grade students attending a nearby middle school. Grief counselors are being made available to students and staff coping with the loss.
Residents of the San Carlos community expressed deep sorrow and growing concern about pedestrian safety in the area. Neighbors report that the intersection has limited crosswalk markings and is frequently used as a cut-through by drivers.
Police said the department’s Traffic Investigations Unit will analyze all available evidence, including roadway design, vehicle data, and visibility conditions.
“This is a devastating tragedy,” one resident said. “Our hearts break for the family and for everyone affected.”
Authorities urge anyone who witnessed the collision to contact the San Diego Police Department’s Traffic Division as the investigation continues.