Santa Ana, CA – Woman Fatally Struck by Garbage Truck While Crossing West Bishop St

Santa Ana, CA (November 20, 2025) – A tragic collision in a residential neighborhood of Santa Ana claimed the life of a 50-year-old woman on Wednesday morning, November 19. According to Santa Ana police, the woman was fatally struck by a garbage truck while crossing the street.

The incident occurred just after 7:00 a.m. near the intersection of Shelton Street and West Bishop Street. Authorities say the woman was crossing West Bishop Street when she was hit by a garbage truck traveling southbound. She died at the scene from catastrophic injuries.

Police confirmed that the incident happened near Pio Pico Elementary School. Many families and children were present in the area during the time of the crash, adding to the emotional toll on the local community.

The Santa Ana Unified School District has deployed its crisis response team to provide support to students, staff, and others who may have witnessed the event. The identity of the woman has not yet been publicly released pending family notification.

The Santa Ana Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim.

Fatal Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Santa Ana

Crashes involving large commercial vehicles, such as garbage trucks, often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the vehicle’s size, weight, and limited maneuverability. When pedestrians are involved, the outcome is especially devastating, as they are entirely unprotected in the event of a collision.

In residential areas like the one near Shelton Street and West Bishop Street, foot traffic is common—especially during early morning hours when children walk to school and residents begin their day. Drivers of large vehicles must exercise heightened caution in these zones, watching closely for pedestrians crossing streets or emerging from between parked cars.

In California, when a fatal pedestrian accident is caused by a driver’s negligence or a commercial vehicle operator’s failure to exercise due care, the surviving family members may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. These claims may seek compensation for funeral and burial costs, emotional distress, loss of future financial support, and loss of companionship.

Cases involving city-operated or private sanitation trucks can be legally complex due to issues of government liability or private contractor responsibility. A thorough investigation is essential to determine fault, assess safety protocols, and review any available surveillance footage or witness accounts.

Working with a skilled wrongful death attorney can provide families with the legal support they need. A knowledgeable attorney can help preserve evidence, communicate with municipal agencies, and ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.

If your family has suffered a devastating loss in a pedestrian accident involving a commercial vehicle, Countrywide Trial Lawyers is here to help. Call 844-844-9119 today to speak with an attorney and learn more about your legal options.