DUI Crash in San Jose Kills Pedestrian

Suspected DUI Crash Claims Pedestrian’s Life on Highway 87/Interstate 280 Connector in San Jose

A tragic collision near downtown San Jose on Wednesday evening, October 22, 2025, left one pedestrian dead and a driver under arrest on suspicion of DUI. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash occurred around 7:20 p.m. on the connector ramp from northbound Highway 87 to northbound Interstate 280. Investigators report that a 52-year-old San Jose man driving a 2021 Hyundai lost control of his vehicle and struck a man who was standing on the right shoulder of the connector. The pedestrian, believed to be in his early to mid-40s, sadly died at the scene. His identity will be released by the Santa Clara County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s Office after next-of-kin notification.

The Hyundai driver was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. CHP Officer Ross Lee noted that it remains unclear why the pedestrian was on the freeway connector at the time of the incident. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to gather additional evidence and witness accounts to determine the sequence of events and all contributing factors.

Understanding DUI Liability in California

When a crash involves suspected alcohol impairment, it triggers both criminal and civil consequences. In California, driving under the influence is a crime, and a criminal case may proceed against a suspected impaired driver. Separately, victims and families may bring a civil claim for wrongful death or personal injury to seek compensation for their losses. A civil case is independent of the criminal case and does not require a criminal conviction; it requires proof that the defendant’s negligence caused the harm.

Alcohol impairment can support a finding of negligence per se if law enforcement evidence shows the driver violated the DUI statutes and that violation caused the collision. Even so, California follows a comparative fault system, meaning a court or insurer will evaluate all contributing factors—including driver conduct, roadway conditions, and the actions of any involved pedestrians or motorists. The fact that a pedestrian is on a freeway shoulder does not automatically absolve a driver from responsibility; drivers still have a duty to maintain control, avoid hazards, and drive at a safe speed for conditions.

A deadly DUI pedestrian accident is a heartbreaking reminder of how one reckless decision can devastate lives and families in an instant. At Avian Law Group, we believe that victims and their loved ones deserve justice, accountability, and compassion during such an unimaginable time.

Our team is dedicated to holding impaired drivers responsible for their actions while helping families pursue the financial recovery and closure they need to begin healing. Beyond the courtroom, we remain committed to raising awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence and advocating for safer communities for everyone who shares the road.

If you or someone you love has been affected by a DUI-related pedestrian accident, reach out to Avian Law Group today. Our compassionate attorneys are here to listen, guide, and fight for you every step of the way.