Woman Killed in Pittsburg Crash at Leland Road and Gladstone Drive Identified

Police Pursuit Crash Ends in Death of Innocent Woman, Vilamalia Polina Tu’ipulotu

PITTSBURG, Calif. (March 26, 2025) – Vilamalia Polina Tu’ipulotu died and her fiancé Beaux Tagaloa was injured Sunday in a crash at East Leland Road and Gladstone Drive in Pittsburg.

The couple was headed home after a family gathering when a driver evading police at high speed while evading police crashed into their vehicle, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The deadly crash occurred around 12:40 a.m. on March 23rd, police said. CHP officers had attempted a traffic stop on a speeding gray Infiniti on Highway 4.

The Infiniti driver failed to stop for police and exited the highway at Railroad Avenue. The motorist ran a red light and eventually crashed into the vehicle occupied by Tu’ipulotu and Tagaloa at East Leland Road and Gladstone Drive.

“Apparently, the police pursuit lasted just over one minute, but it changed the lives of one family forever,” said Attorney James Johnson.

Paramedics responded and transported both drivers to a hospital for their injuries, however, the female passenger identified as Vilamalia Polina Tu’ipulotu died at the scene.

The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s office is investigating the circumstances. Also, the Pittsburg Police Department is heading up the criminal investigation into the suspect.

The victim’s family has a Gofundme to cover her funeral costs.

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When it matters most, trust Johnson Attorneys Group. We are a personal injury law firm serving clients injured in California due to a negligent motorist. If you would like to contribute any information or would like to discuss a potential case, please call 1-(800) 208-3538 as soon as possible. Our personal injury law firm is a proud, longtime supporter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).