Gladys Sandoval dies in pedestrian accident on Moss Street

Sedan struck the Chula Vista resident while she crossed the street in Chula Vista

January 22, 2026 | Chula Vista, CA

Authorities reported that a 57-year-old Chula Vista resident, Gladys Sandoval, lost her life after being struck by a vehicle in the 500 block of Moss Street.

Gladys Sandoval, 57, of Chula Vista died after sustaining injuries when a sedan hit her while she crossed the street in the 500 block of Moss Street in Chula Vista.

Sandoval was crossing the street when a sedan hit her around 6 p.m. Emergency responders rushed her to a nearby hospital, but she succumbed to multiple blunt force injuries affecting her head, trunk, and limbs. The incident occurred just nine days shy of her 58th birthday.

Chula Vista police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

What Happened in the Crash?

• Date and Time: Thursday, Jan. 22, approximately 6 p.m.
• Location: 500 block of Moss Street, Chula Vista, California.
• Victim Details: Gladys Sandoval, 57, a Chula Vista resident, died from blunt force trauma.
• Vehicle Involved: Sedan, and driver details not yet released.
• Response: Medics transported Sandoval to a hospital, where she was pronounced deceased.
• Investigation Status: Ongoing by the Chula Vista Police Department.

Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?

Pedestrian fatalities represent a growing concern on U.S. roadways, often linked to driver negligence, poor visibility, and insufficient pedestrian infrastructure. Data from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) highlights the severity of this issue.

These statistics underscore the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures, including better lighting, signage, and driver awareness campaigns.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in pedestrian collisions to support affected families.

“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. Bond stressed that an independent investigation by a seasoned lawyer is crucial to protect the rights of the victim’s family in cases such as this.

Key takeaways from analyst perspectives:

• Road conditions, signage visibility, and lighting must be examined as potential factors.
• Drivers generally have a duty to yield to pedestrians, per traffic laws.
• Families may pursue claims for loss of companionship, emotional distress, and related expenses.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “Family members may seek damages for loss of income, pain and suffering, funeral costs, and emotional distress following such incidents.”

Formica added that insurance companies may push for low settlements, but an attorney can advocate for fair compensation.

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