Phillip Villafana dies in pedestrian crash on North Euclid Street

Pedestrian trapped under car at coin-operated car wash entrance in Santa Ana

January 27, 2026 | Santa Ana, CA

A 27-year-old man from Long Beach lost his life in a tragic pedestrian accident in Santa Ana when he was struck by a vehicle driven by someone suspected of driving under the influence. 

Authorities responded to the scene at the Orange Coin Car Wash located at 117 North Euclid St., where the victim was found trapped beneath the car and pronounced dead on site.

Phillip Michael Villafana, 27, of Long Beach died after a vehicle ran over him at the Orange Coin Car Wash at 117 North Euclid Street in Santa Ana.

What Happened in the Crash?

Initial reports indicate the collision occurred just before 2:30 p.m. The driver fled the scene briefly but was later apprehended and booked on suspicion of DUI. The Santa Ana Police Department is leading the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

• Victim: Phillip Michael Villafana, 27, of Long Beach
• Location: 117 North Euclid Street, Santa Ana, CA
• Time: Approximately 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 27
• Cause Suspected: Driving under the influence
• Outcome: Victim pronounced dead at the scene, and driver arrested

Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?

Pedestrian fatalities have been on the rise across the U.S., often due to impaired driving, distracted motorists, and failure to yield. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), approximately 2,304 pedestrians were killed in the first half of 2024 alone, highlighting the urgent need for greater road safety measures.

Alcohol-impaired driving continues to be a major contributor to these preventable tragedies, with data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showing it accounts for a significant portion of road fatalities each year.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in pedestrian collision cases to protect the rights of 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 of Bond Legal.

Bond noted that having the proper resources is crucial to investigate such accidents and prove negligence.

• Drivers must yield to pedestrians at all times.
• Independent investigations by experienced attorneys can uncover critical evidence.
• Families may pursue claims for loss of income, companionship, and emotional distress.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.

Formica added that in cases such as this, families may be entitled to wrongful death claims, and attorneys can help navigate insurance pressures for fair compensation.

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