Man Killed in Crash on Interstate 5 [San Diego, CA]

Police Investigate Deadly Crash on Interstate 5 in San Diego

SAN DIEGO, CA (January 1, 2026) – A man was killed early Wednesday morning after a crash on Interstate 5 in San Diego’s Middletown neighborhood, prompting an active investigation into how he ended up in the roadway.

The fatal incident occurred around 6:40 a.m. on the northbound lanes of I-5, just south of Sassafras Street, according to California Highway Patrol (CHP) spokesperson Kimberly Gonzalez. 

Authorities report that a Toyota Prius was traveling northbound when it struck the unidentified pedestrian.

Emergency crews responded to the scene and pronounced the man dead at the site. 

His identity has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin. 

The driver of the Prius remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.

A toxicology report will be completed by the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office to determine whether drugs or alcohol may have played a role in the incident.

CHP urges anyone who may have witnessed the crash to come forward by contacting the San Diego area office at 858-293-6000.

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Sweet Lawyers extend our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of the deceased. May the bereaved find solace and strength in this extremely trying time.

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Lost a Loved One in a San Diego Pedestrian Accident? We’re Here to Help You Find Answers

The tragic loss of life on Interstate 5 in San Diego’s Middletown community is a painful reminder of how quickly a routine day can turn into heartbreak.

At Sweet Lawyers, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the man who lost his life in this devastating incident.

Pedestrian accidents — especially on high-speed roadways like I-5 — are often complex and traumatic. For grieving families, the aftermath can be overwhelming: unanswered questions, medical examiner investigations, and difficult conversations about what to do next.

You do not have to face this alone.

For more than 40 years, Sweet Lawyers has stood by families who’ve lost loved ones due to fatal accidents. While no legal action can undo the pain, pursuing a wrongful death claim can help bring clarity, accountability, and much-needed financial support.

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Let us handle the legal process while you focus on healing.

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📞 Call (800) 674-7854
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