A heartbreaking hit-and-run in San Diego has left a family and community mourning the loss of a 6-year-old boy who was riding his bike with loved ones when tragedy struck.
Hudson Stephen O’Loughlin was riding along Pacific Beach Drive with his family around 3:45 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, when he was struck by an SUV as he crossed an alley near Ingraham Street in the Pacific Beach area, according to local reports.
Police say a 32-year-old woman driving the SUV hit Hudson while turning into the alley, paused briefly, then drove forward and struck him a second time before fleeing the scene. The child was rushed to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The driver was located several hours later in National City and taken into custody. Authorities said alcohol was not believed to be a factor and urged anyone with additional information to contact Crime Stoppers.
A witness who was driving behind the SUV said Hudson and his father were riding just ahead of him when the vehicle suddenly turned into the alley.
“The father crossed first, then the little boy came behind him,” the witness said. “She turned right in and didn’t see him. She stopped, then drove forward and ran over him again before taking off.”
Hudson’s father said he was only steps ahead of his son when the crash happened, with Hudson’s mother and sibling just feet behind them.
Since the tragedy, neighbors and cyclists have created a growing memorial along Pacific Beach Drive, filling the area with flowers, candles, and handwritten notes honoring Hudson’s life and calling for safer streets.
A GoFundMe set up for the family has raised tens of thousands of dollars and describes Hudson as a joyful, curious first-grader who loved science, BMX riding, swimming, skating, and building with Legos. According to the fundraiser, he dreamed of becoming a military scientist and had an energy that lit up every room.
The San Diego Unified School District confirmed Hudson was a first-grade student at McKinley Elementary School and said crisis response counselors would be available on campus to support students, staff, and families.
“Our entire school community is heartbroken,” the school’s principal wrote in a letter to families. “Our thoughts are with Hudson’s family during this unimaginable loss.”
I wonder why she is nameless
Was everyone involved democrats??
If so, then there shouldn’t be any problems….democrats always stick together.