Renette Baker dies in pedestrian accident at Walgreens parking lot

Vehicle struck pedestrian and parked car on Reservation Road

January 28, 2026 | Marina, CA

A 70-year-old woman died after being hit by a vehicle in the parking lot of a Walgreens store in Marina, California, according to the Monterey County Sheriff's Office.

Renette Baker, 70, of Marina, died after a vehicle struck her and a parked car in a parking lot on Reservation Road in Marina.

What Happened in the Crash?

The incident unfolded around 12:45 p.m. on Jan. 28 in the parking lot at 216 Reservation Road. A vehicle struck the pedestrian, identified as Renette Baker of Marina, and also collided with a parked car. Baker was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to her injuries there.

Key details include:

• Victim: Renette Baker, 70, of Marina
• Location: Walgreens parking lot, 216 Reservation Road, Marina, CA
• Time: Approximately 12:45 p.m.
• Date: Jan. 28
• Injuries: Fatal, and victim pronounced dead at hospital
• Other Damage: Parked vehicle involved in collision

The driver stayed at the scene and is cooperating with authorities. The Monterey County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation and urges anyone with information to contact them at 831-884-1210.

Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?

Pedestrian fatalities have surged across the U.S., often due to driver inattention, poor visibility, and inadequate pedestrian protections in parking areas and roadways. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian deaths increased by 80% from 2009 to 2023, far outpacing other traffic fatalities, which rose only 13%.

These trends highlight the need for better road designs prioritizing pedestrian safety, such as improved lighting and signage in commercial lots.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in pedestrian incidents to protect 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 added that road conditions, signage visibility, and lighting must be examined closely in cases such as this to ensure justice.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. The family may be entitled to a wrongful death claim.

Key takeaways from analyst perspectives:

• Families can pursue damages for lost income, companionship, pain and suffering, funeral costs, and emotional distress.
• Independent legal investigations help counter insurance tactics that undervalue claims.
• Attorneys advocate for fair compensation, respecting the full effect of such tragedies.

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