Arrest in Fatal San Francisco Hit-and-Run Incident

Arrest Made After Fatal Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Near Cortland Avenue and Anderson Street in San Francisco

San Francisco police have announced an arrest following a tragic hit-and-run collision that claimed the life of a pedestrian in the Bernal Heights area. The incident occurred around 2:10 a.m. on Friday, October 4, 2025, near the intersection of Cortland Avenue and Anderson Street. Responding officers located a severely injured victim and immediately requested medical assistance. Despite emergency life-saving efforts, the pedestrian succumbed to their injuries.

According to the San Francisco Police Department, investigators believe the victim was struck by a vehicle that left the scene. In the days that followed, officers identified and arrested Perla Rosario Henriquez Ulloa, 21, in connection with the collision. Ulloa was booked into the San Francisco County Jail on suspicion of felony hit-and-run, vehicular manslaughter, hit-and-run resulting in death, destroying or concealing evidence, and violating California’s basic speed law. The investigation remains active, and police are asking anyone with information to come forward.

All individuals arrested on suspicion of a crime are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Many details surrounding the collision remain under review as investigators work to determine the full sequence of events and contributing factors.


Understanding the Legal Landscape After a Fatal Hit-and-Run

When a fatal crash occurs, there are two distinct legal tracks that may move forward: a criminal investigation and a civil claim. A criminal case is brought by the government and focuses on whether a crime was committed, such as felony hit-and-run or vehicular manslaughter. Separately, the victim’s family can pursue a civil wrongful death claim to seek compensation for the losses caused by another party’s negligence, regardless of whether criminal charges are filed or a conviction is obtained.

A wrongful death claim can help surviving family members recover damages for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Final medical bills
- Loss of the decedent’s financial support and benefits
- Loss of companionship, care, and guidance
- The decedent’s pain and suffering in some related claims (such as a survivor action)

California’s statute of limitations generally provides two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. If a public entity may be involved (for example, when a claim concerns dangerous roadway conditions), special procedures and shorter deadlines often apply—typically a government claim within six months—so families should seek legal guidance promptly to preserve their rights.


California Hit-and-Run and Pedestrian Safety Laws

California law requires any driver involved in a collision to stop at the scene, render reasonable assistance, exchange information, and notify law enforcement when appropriate. Leaving the scene of a crash is a misdemeanor when there is property damage and a felony when a person is injured or killed.

In addition:
- Basic Speed Law: Drivers must never drive faster than is safe for current conditions, even if they are below the posted limit. Nighttime darkness, rain, reduced visibility, and pedestrian activity all demand lower speeds and heightened vigilance.
- Pedestrian Right of Way: Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections. Even outside crosswalks, drivers are obligated to exercise due care to avoid collisions and to sound a horn when necessary to warn of danger.

When these duties are violated and a crash results, civil liability can follow, even while a criminal case is pending.


Common Factors in Nighttime Pedestrian Collisions

Although every crash is unique, certain conditions frequently contribute to pedestrian injuries and fatalities during early morning hours:
- Reduced visibility due to darkness or glare
- Speeding or failing to slow for road, traffic, or neighborhood conditions
- Impaired or drowsy driving
- Distraction, including mobile phone use
- Failure to yield at intersections, especially on neighborhood streets
- Inadequate lighting or sight line obstructions

Identifying which factors were at play requires a careful investigation that goes beyond an initial police report.


Evidence That Can Help Strengthen a Case

A thorough civil investigation often complements the law enforcement process and may uncover additional evidence crucial to establishing fault and proving damages. Helpful evidence can include:
- Surveillance video from nearby homes, businesses, or transit vehicles
- Dashcam footage from passing cars or rideshare vehicles
- Event data recorder (EDR) downloads from involved vehicles
- Physical evidence at the scene

A hit-and-run fatal accident leaves behind more than heartbreak—it leaves unanswered questions and a deep need for justice. At Avian Law Group, we are relentless in our pursuit of truth and accountability for victims and their families. Our skilled attorneys have the experience and resources to investigate these complex cases, identify responsible parties, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t let negligence go unanswered. Contact Avian Law Group today to discuss your case and take the first step toward justice.