SAN JOSE, Calif — Authorities have identified the woman killed in a hit-and-run crash Monday morning in San Jose as Monica Ibarra, 52, of San Francisco. The tragic incident has left family, friends, and the Bay Area community grieving as investigators continue their search for the driver responsible.
Crash Details
According to the Santa Clara County Medical Examiner’s Office and the San Jose Police Department, the fatal collision occurred at approximately 8:00 a.m. on Monday, September 8, in San Jose.
Ibarra was riding an electric scooter when she was struck by a vehicle whose driver failed to stop and render aid. Emergency responders arrived quickly and attempted life-saving measures, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation and Manhunt for Driver
San Jose police have launched an intensive investigation into the deadly crash. Authorities confirmed the vehicle involved fled the scene, and detectives are working to gather surveillance footage and witness statements from the surrounding area.
“This was a senseless and preventable tragedy,” a San Jose police spokesperson said. “We are urging anyone who may have seen the collision, or has information about the suspect vehicle, to come forward.”
The hit-and-run unit of the San Jose Police Department is handling the case, with assistance from traffic investigators. At this time, no suspect description has been publicly released.
Community Response
The news of Ibarra’s death has shaken both San Francisco, where she lived, and San Jose, where the crash occurred. Community members expressed frustration over the rise of hit-and-run incidents in the Bay Area, as well as concern about scooter and pedestrian safety.
Neighbors near the crash site created a small memorial with flowers and candles in Ibarra’s honor, remembering her as a kind and vibrant woman whose life ended far too soon.
A Growing Concern in San Jose
This crash marks another tragic entry in what has been a challenging year for San Jose regarding traffic fatalities. Local advocacy groups, including Safe Streets San Jose, reiterated calls for stronger enforcement of traffic laws and infrastructure improvements to protect pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter riders.
“These deaths are not just statistics,” a spokesperson for the group said. “Monica was a daughter, a friend, and a member of our community. We must do more to ensure no more lives are lost this way.”
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, police are asking anyone with information about the incident or the suspect vehicle to contact the San Jose Police Department’s Traffic Investigations Unit. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers Silicon Valley.
Meanwhile, Monica Ibarra’s family and loved ones are left mourning a devastating loss. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
“This is a heartbreaking moment for all of us,” said one family friend. “Monica deserved so much more. We just hope justice is served.”
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