Driver fled after colliding with Toyota Corolla carrying five juveniles near East 31st Street
November 07, 2025 | Oakland, CA
A tragic hit-and-run crash in East Oakland claimed the life of 15-year-old Ashley Lopez Argueta on a Friday morning.
Authorities report that a 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter following the incident.
Ashley Lopez Argueta, 15, of Oakland, was killed when a Toyota Corolla hit a wall after a hit-and-run near 14th Avenue and East 31st Street, injuring four other juveniles.
What Happened in the Crash?
The collision unfolded near 14th Avenue and East 31st Street around 9:40 a.m. A Toyota Corolla carrying five juveniles, including Argueta in the rear passenger seat, struck another vehicle. The young driver fled the scene at high speed, prompting the initial impacted driver to pursue and notify the police.
- Initial Impact: The Toyota Corolla collided with a second vehicle in East Oakland.
- Pursuit and Second Crash: As the Toyota sped northbound in the 3300 block of 35th Avenue, it crashed into a third car before slamming into a concrete wall.
- Victims Transported: All five occupants of the Toyota were rushed to local hospitals.
- Fatal Outcome: Ashley Lopez Argueta sadly did not survive her injuries.
- Suspect Status: The 16-year-old driver, now under arrest, remains in critical condition.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Argueta's family with funeral and related expenses.
The Oakland Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the hit-and-run and subsequent crashes.
Why Do Hit-and-Run Crashes Happen?
Hit-and-run incidents often stem from reckless driving behaviors that endanger public safety. Key contributing factors include:
- Speeding and evasive maneuvers to avoid accountability.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Distracted operation, such as cellphone use.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic fatalities surged in early 2025, with 8,055 lives lost in motor vehicle collisions during the first quarter alone. This data underscores the urgent need for heightened awareness and enforcement.
Factor |
Description |
NHTSA-Reported Impact (Q1 2025) |
|---|
Speeding |
Excessive velocity leading to loss of control |
Contributed to 29% of fatal crashes |
DUI |
Impairment from alcohol or drugs |
Involved in 25% of incidents |
Distracted Driving |
Cellphone or other diversions |
Linked to 8% of fatalities |
Hit-and-Run |
Fleeing the scene post-collision |
Rising trend in urban areas |
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
In hit-and-run cases, drivers are legally required to stop, provide aid, and report to authorities. Failure to comply can result in severe criminal charges, including vehicular manslaughter.
Legal Insights
Newsline's national legal analysts emphasize the critical role of thorough investigations in motor vehicle incidents like this one.
“In cases such as this, it is imperative to have an independent investigation conducted by a seasoned attorney. In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal.
Key takeaways from analysis:
- Timely Evidence Gathering: Time is critical; families should ensure evidence is reviewed efficiently to build a strong case.
- Wrongful Death Claims: Eligible family members may pursue compensation for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
- Economic and Emotional Support: Accidents cause profound losses; legal guidance helps secure justice.
“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one. If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney and get the guidance needed to obtain the justice you deserve,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.
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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).