Chevrolet Traverse struck boy walking in roadway under foggy conditions in Mira Mesa
December 13, 2025 | Mira Mesa, CA
Mira Mesa authorities reported that Jayden Isaiah Stewart, a 14-year-old from San Diego, died after being struck by an SUV in foggy conditions on Dec. 13.
The incident occurred around 8:30 p.m. at the intersection of Camino Ruiz and Hydra Lane, where Stewart was walking in the roadway.
Jayden Isaiah Stewart, 14, of San Diego, died after he was struck by a Chevrolet Traverse at Camino Ruiz and Hydra Lane in Mira Mesa.
What Happened in the Crash?
San Diego police and the county Medical Examiner's office detailed the tragic event. Stewart was transported to Scripps Memorial Hospital, La Jolla, but succumbed to his injuries.
- Victim: Jayden Isaiah Stewart, 14, San Diego resident
- Location: Intersection of Camino Ruiz and Hydra Lane, Mira Mesa, CA
- Time: Approximately 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 13, 2025
- Vehicle Involved: Chevrolet Traverse SUV
- Conditions: Foggy weather contributing to low visibility
- Outcome: Fatal injuries leading to death at the hospital
- Driver Status: Identity not released, and no immediate details on charges
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full circumstances.
Why Do These Pedestrian Accidents Happen?
Pedestrian fatalities have risen sharply in recent years, driven by factors like increased SUV usage, urban road designs prioritizing speed, and driver inattention. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 84% of pedestrian deaths in 2023 occurred in urban areas, compared to 59% in 1975.
Factor |
Statistic |
Source |
|---|
Urban Pedestrian Deaths |
84% of total in 2023 (up from 59% in 1975) |
IIHS |
Vehicle Weight Impact |
Heavier SUVs and trucks increase fatality risk by up to 45% |
NHTSA |
Nighttime Fatalities |
75% of pedestrian deaths happen after dark |
CDC |
Speed-Related Crashes |
Vehicles over 30 mph triple injury severity |
Federal Highway Administration |
These trends highlight the need for better infrastructure, such as improved lighting and crosswalks, to protect vulnerable road users.
Legal Insights
National legal analysts provide perspective on pedestrian safety and accountability in motor vehicle incidents.
“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 that an independent investigation by a seasoned lawyer is crucial to protect the rights of affected families in cases such as this, ensuring evidence is reviewed promptly.
- Drivers must yield to pedestrians at all times, as it is their primary duty.
- Families may pursue wrongful death claims for damages including loss of income, companionship, pain and suffering, funeral costs, and emotional distress.
- Insurance companies often push for quick, low settlements, and legal representation ensures fair compensation and respect for the family's needs.
“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “Family members may seek damages following a tragic accident, but an attorney will advocate vigorously to counter insurance tactics.”
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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).