Birhane Woldenmicael Struck, Killed on I-5 Freeway in Encinitas

San Diego Man, 73, Hit by Vehicle After He Stopped to Help Others

ENCINITAS, Calif. (Sept. 15, 2026) — Birhane Woldenmicael, 73, of San Diego, died early Saturday in Encinitas on the I-5 Freeway after he exited his vehicle to render aid and was struck by an oncoming vehicle, according to the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office.

The vehicle struck the San Diego man around 3:05 a.m. on Sept. 12 on the northbound side of the freeway, just north of Leucadia Boulevard, according to the California Highway Patrol report.

Sadly, the man was pronounced dead at the scene at 3:10 a.m., the SDME report said.

The first collision involved at least three vehicles: a black SUV, a Nissan Sentra, and a Honda Civic. One of those vehicles was driven by Woldenmicael. He reportedly got out of his vehicle after the accident, when he was struck by another vehicle.

The fatal crash is under investigation by the CHP.

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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).