Suv struck man who walked near west of Hillside Drive
November 20, 2025 | Jamul, CA
A devastating pedestrian collision claimed the life of a 55-year-old man in Jamul, California, early on a Thursday morning.
The California Highway Patrol is leading the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding this fatal event.
Guillermo Arellano Pagan, 55, died after an SUV struck him while he walked along State Route 94 west of Hillside Drive in Jamul.
What Happened in the Crash?
Authorities report that Guillermo Arellano Pagan was walking along State Route 94 when he was struck by a sport utility vehicle.
Key details include:
- Date and Time: Nov. 20, 2025, approximately 4:19 a.m.
- Location: State Route 94, west of Hillside Drive, Jamul, CA
- Victim: Guillermo Arellano Pagan, 55 years old
- Vehicle Involved: SUV
- Outcome: Pagan was pronounced deceased at the scene
- Investigation: Handled by the California Highway Patrol (CHP)
The precise factors leading to the crash are still under review as investigators gather evidence.
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Pedestrian fatalities represent a persistent challenge on California's roadways, with multiple contributing elements often at play. Common causes stem from driver behavior, environmental conditions, and infrastructure shortcomings.
Factor |
Description |
Contribution to Fatalities (2022 Data, NHTSA) |
|---|
Speeding |
Excessive vehicle speed reduces reaction time |
Approximately 29% of cases |
Distracted Driving |
Use of mobile devices or other distractions |
Involved in 8-10% of pedestrian deaths |
Impaired Driving |
Alcohol or drug influence on drivers |
Linked to 20% of nighttime incidents |
Poor Visibility |
Nighttime or low-light conditions |
75% of fatal crashes occur at night |
Road Design |
Lack of sidewalks or crosswalks |
Urban areas see 60% of such events |
In 2022, California recorded about 1,158 pedestrian deaths, accounting for roughly 26% of all traffic fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Many incidents unfold in urban settings after dark, away from intersections, and about one in four involves a fleeing driver.
Legal Insights
National legal analysts provide valuable perspectives on navigating the aftermath of pedestrian collisions. Their guidance underscores the need for thorough examinations to support affected families.
“In cases such as this, it is imperative to have an independent investigation conducted by a seasoned lawyer to help protect the family of a victim’s rights,” said Candice Bond, managing partner with Bond Legal and a national analyst with Newsline. “Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a pedestrian accident case and prove negligence. Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must be thoroughly examined. These procedures are necessary for helping those who have lost a loved one receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve.”
Key takeaways from analyst insights:
- Independent investigations can uncover hidden factors like lighting or signage issues.
- Families may pursue compensation for loss of companionship and emotional distress.
- Early legal involvement ensures rights are safeguarded during official investigations.
“We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their best interests are taken care of. Relatives of wrongful death victims are entitled to seek damages for the loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident.”
Potential Wrongful Death Claims
Relatives of Guillermo Arellano Pagan could explore options for a wrongful death claim. Such actions allow families to seek remedies for the profound impacts of losing a loved one, including emotional and financial hardships.
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Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one needs help, she offers free consultations.
(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).