Vehicle struck the pedestrian in Newhall early Wednesday morning
December 10, 2025 | Newhall, CA
A 26-year-old Lancaster resident, Angel de Jesus Negrete, lost his life in a suspected hit-and-run incident near Sierra Highway and Needham Ranch Parkway in Newhall.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed his identity following the tragic event.
Angel de Jesus Negrete, 26, of Lancaster died after a vehicle struck him in a hit-and-run pedestrian crash near Sierra Highway and Needham Ranch Parkway in Newhall.
What Happened in the Crash?
Negrete was discovered deceased early Wednesday morning, prompting an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. Authorities believe a vehicle struck him and fled the scene, leaving him without prompt medical aid.
- Date and Time: Early morning on Dec. 10, 2025
- Location: Intersection of Sierra Highway and Needham Ranch Parkway, Newhall, California
- Victim: Angel de Jesus Negrete, 26, from Lancaster
- Incident Type: Suspected pedestrian hit-and-run
- Outcome: Fatal injuries leading to death at the scene
Negrete's family has established a GoFundMe page to honor his memory, with his sister Kimberly Padilla describing him as "the kindest, happiest, most giving person I’ve ever met."
Who Is Investigating the Incident?
Detectives from the Santa Clarita Valley Traffic Office are leading the investigation into this fatal crash. They are seeking public assistance to identify the responsible vehicle and driver.
Individuals with any details are encouraged to contact authorities at 661-260-4000. As of the latest updates, no arrests have been made, and further information remain pending.
Why Do Hit-and-Run Crashes Occur?
Hit-and-run incidents often stem from drivers' fear of legal repercussions, panic, or impairment. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, nearly 65 percent of fatalities in such crashes involve pedestrians or bicyclists, underscoring the vulnerability of those outside vehicles.
Statistic |
Value |
Source |
|---|
Percentage of hit-and-run fatalities that are pedestrians or bicyclists |
65% |
AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety |
Annual hit-and-run crashes in the U.S. |
Over 2,000 fatalities |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration |
Common causes |
Distracted driving, speeding, alcohol impairment |
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) |
This table highlights the pressing need for heightened awareness and enforcement to prevent similar tragedies.
Legal Insights
In cases such as this, thorough investigations play a crucial role in establishing accountability. National legal analyst Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, emphasizes the importance of resources in pedestrian accident investigations.
“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a pedestrian accident case and prove negligence,” Bond stated. “The driver always has to take great care behind the wheel.”
- Delays in medical response after serious crashes can be life-threatening, and leaving the scene benefits no one.
- Professional witnesses and witness location are essential for building a strong case.
- Reviewing insurance coverage helps ensure victims' rights are protected.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, addresses the emotional toll on families.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” Formica noted. “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.”
Families may pursue wrongful death claims for damages including loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
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Have you experienced a similar accident and need guidance? Contact national legal analyst Candice Bond at Newsline for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
(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).