Pedestrian Killed in Carlsbad Hit-and-Run

Pedestrian Killed in Suspected Hit-and-Run in Carlsbad: What We Know and How Families Can Protect Their Rights

A fatal pedestrian collision in a residential area of Carlsbad has left a community grieving and a family seeking answers. On Friday morning, October 17, 2025, Carlsbad Police Department officers responded to reports of a traffic collision near Tamarack Avenue and Skyline Road just before 11:30 a.m. Responding officers found a pedestrian deceased at the scene.

According to police, the driver left the area but returned while officers were still present. The driver, identified by authorities as a 57-year-old Carlsbad resident, Paul H., was arrested on suspicion of leaving the scene of a collision resulting in death and vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence. He was booked into the Vista Detention Facility. Investigators stated that alcohol is not believed to be a factor at this time. The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office will release the identity of the pedestrian once next of kin notifications are complete. The investigation is ongoing, and no further details about contributing factors have been made public.

While criminal charges are a matter for the courts and the presumption of innocence applies, families affected by such incidents often face immediate emotional and financial challenges. Understanding the legal landscape and practical next steps can help protect their rights during a difficult time.


Understanding Hit-and-Run and Pedestrian Laws in California

California law requires any driver involved in a collision causing injury or death to stop at the scene, provide identifying information, and render aid when possible. Leaving the scene of a crash that results in injury or death is a felony offense under state law. In addition, vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence can be charged when a death results from ordinary negligence behind the wheel.

Pedestrians generally have the right-of-way in marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections, and drivers must exercise due care to avoid collisions with pedestrians. At the same time, pedestrians must use reasonable care for their own safety. California follows a pure comparative negligence system, meaning responsibility for a crash can be apportioned between parties based on the facts. Even where fault is shared, families may still pursue compensation for losses proportional to the other party’s responsibility.

A deadly hit-and-run pedestrian crash is one of the most heartbreaking and senseless tragedies imaginable. When a driver chooses to flee the scene, families are left to face unimaginable grief, anger, and uncertainty while seeking justice for their loved one. At Avian Law Group, we stand firmly beside victims’ families during these painful times, committed to pursuing accountability and answers.

Our experienced attorneys work tirelessly with investigators and law enforcement to identify those responsible and hold them to the fullest extent of the law. Beyond seeking financial recovery, our mission is to help families find closure and ensure that negligent drivers are brought to justice—so that no other family has to endure such preventable loss.

If you or someone you love has lost a family member in a hit-and-run pedestrian accident, contact Avian Law Group today. Our compassionate team is here to provide guidance, support, and unwavering advocacy every step of the way.