Chevrolet Tahoe struck Honda Civic in hit-and-run at Scripps Poway Parkway intersection
February 14, 2026 | Poway, CA
A tragic hit-and-run crash claimed the life of Sherilynne Hammer and injured another passenger late Saturday night at the intersection of state Route 67 and Scripps Poway Parkway in Poway, San Diego County.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is leading the investigation into the collision that occurred around 11:25 p.m.
Sherilynne Hammer died after a Chevrolet Tahoe collided with a Honda Civic and fled the scene at state Route 67 and Scripps Poway Parkway in San Diego County.
What Happened in the Poway Hit-and-Run Crash?
The incident unfolded when a northbound Honda Civic, driven by a 33-year-old man, attempted a left turn onto westbound Scripps Poway Parkway. At the same time, a southbound Chevrolet Tahoe entered the intersection, leading to a severe collision between the two vehicles.
- Date and Time: Feb. 14, around 11:25 p.m.
- Location: Intersection of Route 67 and Scripps Poway Parkway, Poway, CA
- Vehicles Involved: Honda Civic, northbound, turning left, and Chevrolet Tahoe, southbound
- Victims: Sherilynne Hammer, female passenger in Honda Civic, pronounced dead at the scene, and another passenger in the Honda sustained major injuries and was hospitalized
- Suspect Action: The Chevrolet Tahoe driver fled the scene without stopping
- Arrest Status: One individual has been taken into custody in connection with the crash
Authorities confirmed that family members identified Sherilynne Hammer as the deceased passenger. The investigation remains active as CHP gathers more evidence.
Why Do Hit-and-Run Crashes Like This Occur in San Diego County?
Hit-and-run incidents often stem from reckless driving behaviors that endanger lives on California's busy roadways. Factors such as speeding, impairment from alcohol or drugs, and distractions like cellphone use contribute significantly to these tragedies.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic fatalities have surged, with 8,055 lives lost in motor vehicle collisions during the first quarter of 2025 alone. In San Diego County, intersections like Route 67 and Scripps Poway Parkway see heavy traffic, amplifying risks.
Common Causes of Traffic Fatalities |
Statistics (NHTSA, Q1 2025) |
Impact on Hit-and-Runs |
|---|
Speeding |
29% of fatal crashes |
Increases severity, encourages fleeing |
Distracted Driving |
8% of fatalities |
Leads to failure to yield or stop |
Driving Under Influence |
30% of deaths |
Impairs judgment, prompting escapes |
Failure to Yield |
Common in intersections |
Directly tied to collision types here |
Data sourced from NHTSA reports highlights the urgent need for safer driving practices and stricter enforcement.
Legal Insights on Investigating Hit-and-Run Collisions
In cases such as this involving hit-and-run motor vehicle crashes, a thorough investigation is crucial to establish liability and support affected families. Newsline consulted national legal analysts for broader perspectives on handling these incidents.
“In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party,” said Candice Bond, a national analyst for Newsline and managing partner at Bond Legal. “Time is of the essence in cases such as this, and the family of a victim must be ensured that evidence is reviewed in an efficient manner.”
Key takeaways from analyst insights:
- Independent Review: Seasoned professionals can uncover details missed in initial reports, such as witness statements or digital evidence.
- Evidence Preservation: Prompt action preserves critical data like video footage and communication logs.
- Legal Ramifications: Fleeing the scene can lead to criminal charges, including hit-and-run offenses under California law.
- Victim Support: Families benefit from experienced guidance to navigate complex investigations.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, emphasized the emotional and financial toll:
“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one. If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney and get the guidance needed to obtain the justice you deserve.”
Potential Wrongful Death Claims Following the Crash
Families of victims in fatal hit-and-run accidents may pursue wrongful death claims to seek compensation for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. These claims hold negligent parties accountable and provide support during recovery.
For immediate assistance, reach out to legal professionals experienced in California traffic laws. Newsline encourages those affected to consult professionals promptly.
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Have you experienced a similar accident and need guidance? Contact national legal analyst Candice Bond at Newsline for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
(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).