Rosa Castaneda Killed in Pedestrian Crash on 101 Freeway

Motorist struck woman on northbound lanes near Santa Monica Boulevard Tuesday night

November 11, 2025 | Hollywood, CA

A tragic incident unfolded on the (101) Freeway in Hollywood when 65-year-old Rosa Castaneda was struck and killed by a vehicle on Tuesday night, November 11. 

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed her identity and determined the cause of death as blunt trauma. 

California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers responded to the scene around 9:24 p.m. on the northbound lanes just north of Santa Monica Boulevard.

What Happened in the Crash?

Rosa Castaneda, 65, of Hollywood, was fatally struck on the northbound 101 Freeway near Santa Monica Boulevard.

Details of the pedestrian accident remain limited as the investigation is ongoing. CHP officials reported finding Castaneda's body on the freeway, but the circumstances leading to the collision are still under review.

• Victim: Rosa Castaneda, 65 years old
• Location: Northbound (101) Freeway, Hollywood, just north of Santa Monica Boulevard
• Time: Approximately 9:24 p.m.
• Date: November 11, 2025
• Agency Involved: California Highway Patrol (CHP)
• Cause of Death: Blunt trauma, per Los Angeles County Medical Examiner

Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Happen?

Pedestrian fatalities on U.S. roadways have surged in recent years, driven by factors such as increased urban vehicle traffic, heavier vehicles like SUVs and pickup trucks, high speeds, and distracted driving. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 84% of pedestrian deaths in 2023 occurred in urban areas, a sharp rise from 59% in 1975.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that roadways have become more dangerous for walkers, with pedestrian deaths rising 77% from 2010 to 2022.

Legal Insights on Pedestrian Crashes

Newsline's national legal analysts, Candice Bond and Stefano Formica, provide expert perspective on fatal pedestrian accidents. As experienced attorneys specializing in such cases, they emphasize the importance of thorough investigations and victim rights.

“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. “It’s imperative to have an independent probe conducted by a seasoned lawyer to help protect the rights of the victim’s family in cases such as this.”

Key takeaways from analyst insights:

• Right of Way: Drivers must yield to pedestrians at intersections and crosswalks.
• Investigation Urgency: Prompt evidence collection is crucial for accuracy and accountability in motor vehicle crashes.
• Wrongful Death Claims: Families may seek compensation for loss of income, companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress.
• Insurance Tactics: Companies often push for quick, low settlements; legal representation ensures fair treatment.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, Of Counsel at Bond Legal. “Family members of wrongful death victims in tragic accidents may pursue claims to address the full impact of their loss.”

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