Vehicle struck the boy outside his apartment complex in Escondido
November 26, 2025 | Escondido, CA
An 11-year-old boy lost his life following a hit-and-run collision in Escondido, California, where he was struck by a vehicle while playing outside his apartment.
Authorities responded to the scene near East Washington Avenue and North Hickory Street around 5 p.m. on Wednesday.
Aiden Antonio Torres de Paz, 11, was killed in hit-and-run while playing outside his apartment near East Washington Avenue and North Hickory Street in Escondido.
What Happened in the Crash?
The young victim, identified as Aiden Antonio Torres de Paz, was engaged in play with another child when an unknown vehicle struck him. Emergency services transported him to a local hospital before airlifting him to Rady Children's Hospital. Tragically, Aiden passed away from his injuries on Thanksgiving morning.
- Date and Time: Nov. 26, 2025, approximately 5 p.m.
- Location: Near East Washington Avenue and North Hickory Street, Escondido, CA
- Victim: Aiden Antonio Torres de Paz, age 11
- Vehicle: Unknown make and model, and the driver fled the scene
- Response: Initial treatment at local hospital, then airlift to Rady Children's Hospital
- Outcome: Victim succumbed to injuries on Nov. 27, 2025
Why Do Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accidents Occur?
Hit-and-run incidents often stem from driver panic, impairment, or distraction. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, nearly 65 percent of fatalities in such crashes involve pedestrians or bicyclists. Factors contributing to these tragedies include speeding, failure to yield, and poor visibility in residential areas.
Statistic |
Value |
Source |
|---|
Percentage of hit-and-run fatalities that are pedestrians/bicyclists |
65% |
AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety |
Annual U.S. pedestrian deaths |
Over 7,000 |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) |
Hit-and-run crashes reported yearly |
Approximately 2,000 |
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) |
Investigation Status
The Escondido Police Department is actively investigating the hit-and-run. The driver remains at large, and authorities are seeking public assistance. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Officer Paul Smyth at 760-839-4423. This case highlights the critical need for thorough crash probes to establish fault and prevent future incidents.
Legal Insights
National legal analysts provide valuable perspectives on pedestrian accidents and the importance of accountability in cases such as this.
“Even a minute's delay in medical attention after a serious crash can cost a life. Leaving the scene helps no one — not the victim, and not the driver,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal.
Key takeaways from analyst insights:
- Drivers must exercise utmost caution, especially in areas with children playing.
- Comprehensive investigations require experienced resources to analyze negligence and gather evidence.
- Reviewing insurance coverage and witness statements is essential for building a strong case.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that the victim's legal rights and best interests are protected.”
In situations involving wrongful death, families may pursue claims for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Legal support can navigate these complex processes effectively.
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If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a hit-and-run, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free, no-obligation consultation.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).