San Diego, CA – Child Critically Injured in Hit-and-Run at University Ave & 54th St

San Diego, CA (October 25, 2025) – Authorities are investigating a serious hit-and-run collision that left a child critically injured on Friday, October 24, near the intersection of University Avenue and 54th Street in San Diego. According to the San Diego Police Department, the crash occurred around 6:50 p.m. when a vehicle struck the child and fled the scene without stopping to render aid.

Emergency responders arrived within minutes and found the young victim unresponsive in the roadway. Life-saving measures, including CPR, were initiated at the scene before the child was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. The victim’s current condition has not yet been released.

Police described the suspect vehicle as a possible two-door Honda Civic that was last seen traveling away from the area. A search is underway to locate the vehicle and the driver involved. Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has surveillance footage from the area to contact law enforcement immediately.

At approximately 7:45 p.m., the California Highway Patrol issued a SigAlert for University Avenue, closing the stretch between 54th Street and 58th Street. The closure remained in effect for more than two hours as investigators documented the scene, gathered evidence, and cleared debris from the roadway.

The investigation remains ongoing, and no arrests have been made at this time.

We extend our deepest hopes for the full recovery of the injured child, and our thoughts are with their family during this difficult time.

Hit-and-Run Crashes in San Diego

Hit-and-run incidents remain a major concern across San Diego County, particularly in densely populated urban corridors like University Avenue, where both pedestrian and vehicle traffic are high. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, pedestrian-involved collisions account for a growing number of serious injuries and fatalities each year, with many caused by drivers fleeing the scene to avoid responsibility.

Striking a pedestrian and leaving without offering aid is a felony offense under California law. Such actions not only endanger victims further but also hinder emergency response efforts that can be critical to survival. Law enforcement agencies continue to emphasize public awareness campaigns and surveillance improvements to help identify offenders more quickly.

At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we represent victims and families affected by pedestrian and hit-and-run accidents throughout Southern California. Our legal team investigates each case thoroughly, identifies liable parties, and pursues compensation for medical costs, long-term care, and emotional suffering.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a hit-and-run or pedestrian accident, contact Countrywide Trial Lawyers today at (844)-844-9119 to schedule a free consultation with our personal injury lawyer. We are dedicated to helping victims obtain justice and recover after devastating roadway incidents.