Vehicle struck pedestrian at Gale avenue intersection
December 21, 2025 | Hacienda Heights, CA
Hacienda Heights authorities reported a tragic incident where a 73-year-old woman lost her life after being struck by a vehicle. The incident unfolded in the evening, highlighting ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety in urban areas.
What Happened in the Crash?
Hongying Weng, 73, died after she was struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Gale and Valencia avenues in Hacienda Heights.
The collision took place at the intersection of Gale and Valencia avenues around 5:20 p.m. Emergency responders from the California Highway Patrol and the Los Angeles County Fire Department arrived promptly. The victim, identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office as Hongying Weng, was declared deceased at the location.
- Date and Time: Dec. 21, 2025, approximately 5:20 p.m.
- Location: Gale and Valencia avenues, Hacienda Heights, CA
- Victim: Hongying Weng, 73 years old
- Outcome: Pronounced dead at the scene
- Responding Agencies: California Highway Patrol, Los Angeles County Fire Department, Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office
Investigators are actively examining the circumstances, with further information pending.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian fatalities have risen significantly, driven by factors such as larger vehicles, higher speeds, and urban infrastructure challenges. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 84% of pedestrian deaths in 2023 happened in urban settings, compared to 59% in 1975.
Common contributing elements include:
- Increased presence of SUVs and pickup trucks on roads
- Road designs prioritizing vehicle speed over pedestrian safety
- Driver distractions and reckless behaviors
Statistic |
1975 |
2023 |
Source |
|---|
Urban Pedestrian Deaths (% of Total) |
59% |
84% |
IIHS |
Annual Pedestrian Fatalities (U.S.) |
About 6,000 |
About 7,500 |
NHTSA |
Risk Factors |
Smaller vehicles, lower speeds |
Heavier vehicles, urban density |
CDC |
These trends underscore the need for enhanced safety measures and awareness.
Legal Insights on Pedestrian Incidents
National legal analysts provide valuable perspectives on handling such tragedies. In a dedicated section, insights focus on the importance of thorough investigations and protecting 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 emphasized the value of independent reviews in these situations.
Key takeaways:
- Conduct independent investigations to preserve evidence and assess negligence
- Gather comprehensive resources for accurate documentation
- Prioritize rights protection for those affected
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.
Formica highlighted the role of legal support in navigating investigations and securing interests.
Newsline's Commitment to Credibility
Newsline, owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., stands as a premier digital news platform with an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence. Our rigorous standards ensure verified reporting, drawing from authoritative sources like the IIHS and NHTSA. We invite feedback and maintain transparency through our Corrections Policy, offering a 24-hour review guarantee.
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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).