Pedestrian Struck at Berkeley Intersection; Investigation Ongoing

Pedestrian Struck at Claremont and Ashby in Berkeley; Investigation Ongoing

A pedestrian was transported to the hospital after being struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Claremont Avenue and Ashby Avenue in Berkeley on Wednesday evening, October 8, 2025. According to Berkeley police, the crash occurred just before 6:00 p.m. The pedestrian, described as a 20- to 30-year-old adult, remained conscious after the collision and was transported “Code 3” — with lights and sirens — by the Berkeley Fire Department to Highland Hospital. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. The roadway has since reopened.

As of this writing, officials have not released additional details about the collision, including the direction of travel or the events leading up to impact. The investigation remains open.

What We Know So Far

- Date and time: Wednesday, October 8, 2025, just before 6:00 p.m.
- Location: Intersection of Claremont Avenue and Ashby Avenue, Berkeley
- Parties: An adult pedestrian and the driver of a vehicle that remained at the scene
- Response: Berkeley police and fire responded; the pedestrian was transported Code 3 to the hospital
- Status: Roadway reopened; investigation ongoing; no further details released by authorities

Why Evening Intersections Are High-Risk for Pedestrians

Collisions around dusk are common due to changing light conditions that reduce visibility for both drivers and pedestrians. Headlights and streetlights can create glare, shadows can obscure crosswalk users, and higher commuter traffic often coincides with people walking to transit, dining, or errands. Intersections like Claremont and Ashby, which serve as major connectors with multiple lanes and turning movements, can be particularly challenging when traffic volumes are high and drivers are focused on signal changes or turn opportunities.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Collisions at Busy Intersections

While the precise cause of this crash has not yet been released, typical factors in pedestrian collisions at signalized intersections include:
- Failure to yield in crosswalks (especially during permitted left turns across crosswalks)
- Red-light running or late attempts to “beat the yellow”
- Speeding and reduced stopping distance
- Distracted driving (mobile devices, infotainment, in-vehicle distractions)
- Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs)
- Low visibility due to dusk, rain, or glare