Fatal Pedestrian Accident 5 Freeway near Sassafras Street in San Diego
Man, 67, Killed in Crash on I-5 Freeway
SAN DIEGO, Calif. (Dec. 31, 2025) — A fatal pedestrian accident happened early Wednesday morning in San Diego on the northbound Interstate 5 Freeway near the Sassafras Street/Kettner Boulevard area, authorities said.
The California Highway Patrol received the first reports shortly before 6:40 a.m. on Dec. 31st of a male walking in the traffic lanes on northbound I-5 near Sassafras Street. Moments later, callers reported a man lying on the right shoulder and along the wall, possibly after being hit by a vehicle.
CHP officers and emergency crews responded to the scene, where a Toyota Prius was found stopped on the right-hand side of the freeway. The incident was later confirmed as a fatality. The victim was a 67-year-old man who was killed one week before his 68th birthday; however, his identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
As a result of the collision, all northbound lanes of I-5 were temporarily blocked, prompting the issuance of a SigAlert and activation of freeway message signs. Traffic breaks were conducted as officers worked to secure the scene. By about 7:08 a.m., four lanes were reopened, though at least one lane remained closed for a time during the investigation.
An evidence tow was requested for the Toyota Prius, and CHP notified the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies. Advantage Towing responded on a priority call to remove the vehicle.
The circumstances leading up to the collision remain under investigation, including why the pedestrian was in the roadway. Authorities have not said whether impairment or other factors played a role. Anyone who witnessed the incident is urged to contact the California Highway Patrol.
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When it matters most, trust Attorney James Johnson at Johnson Attorneys Group. We are a personal injury law firm serving clients who have been injured throughout California due to negligent motorists. If you were hurt in this collision, call 1-(800) 208-3538. We will request the police report, and the attorney will discuss your options. You are under no obligation to hire us, and there is no cost unless we win your case. Our personal injury law firm is a proud, longtime supporter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
