A pedestrian was struck and killed by a Coaster train in the Old Town neighborhood of San Diego on Tuesday, July 11.

The incident occurred at 2:48 AM by a southbound Coaster train at the Old Town Transit Station, reported by the San Diego County’s Sheriff Department. Officials discovered the body of a man about 30 to 40 years of age dead at the scene. The San Diego County Examiner’s Office will conduct a thorough examination to determine the exact cause of death. 

busy metro train depicted

The investigation is still ongoing, and the identity of the man has not yet been released to the public.

“Pedestrians need to feel safe, and our local trains need to co-exist with them at all times,” said Gerald Singleton leading personal injury attorney at Singleton Schreiber. “The victim’s family and loved ones deserve our love and support as they deal with this fatal incident.”

Singleton Schreiber San Diego pedestrian accident attorneys can be reached at (619) 771-3473 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.

Fatal Old Town San Diego Pedestrian Accidents

San Diego’s Old Town is a vibrant and historic neighborhood that attracts tourists and locals alike. With its charming streets, cultural attractions, and bustling atmosphere, it is a popular destination for pedestrians. However, in recent years, the community has experienced a concerning increase in fatal pedestrian accidents. These tragic incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety and the need for proactive measures to prevent further loss of life.

Over the past few years, Old Town San Diego has witnessed a troubling rise in fatal pedestrian accidents. Statistics reveal a distressing trend, with an increasing number of lives lost due to collisions between vehicles and pedestrians. These accidents have not only devastated families and friends but also highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures in the area.

Several factors contribute to the high occurrence of pedestrian accidents in Old Town San Diego. The neighborhood’s popularity among tourists and pedestrians, coupled with its narrow streets and heavy traffic, creates a challenging environment for both pedestrians and drivers. Distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield, and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure also play significant roles in these accidents.

  • Lack of Pedestrian-Friendly Infrastructure: Old Town San Diego, being an older neighborhood, faces infrastructure challenges that impact pedestrian safety. Inadequate crosswalks, poorly lit streets, and limited signage can make it difficult for pedestrians to navigate safely. Additionally, the absence of dedicated pedestrian zones and protective barriers further exacerbates the risks pedestrians face.
  • Raising Awareness and Education: Raising awareness about pedestrian safety is crucial in reducing accidents. Educational campaigns targeting both drivers and pedestrians can help foster a culture of safety in the community. Educational initiatives should focus on promoting responsible driving practices, emphasizing the importance of yielding to pedestrians, and educating pedestrians on safe crossing behaviors and the need for vigilance.
  • Enhancing Infrastructure: Addressing the infrastructure deficiencies in Old Town San Diego is paramount to ensuring pedestrian safety. Municipal authorities should invest in pedestrian-friendly infrastructure improvements such as well-marked crosswalks, improved lighting, traffic-calming measures, and clear signage. Implementing traffic calming techniques, such as speed bumps and roundabouts, can help reduce vehicle speeds and enhance pedestrian safety.
  • Collaboration and Enforcement: Collaboration between local authorities, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations is essential in addressing the issue effectively. Regular traffic law enforcement, with a particular focus on speeding and distracted driving, can act as a deterrent and help reinforce safe driving behaviors. Partnerships with community organizations can aid in organizing safety events, campaigns, and educational programs.
  • Engaging Technology: Harnessing technological advancements can also contribute to enhancing pedestrian safety. Installing traffic cameras and using video analytics systems can help identify problematic areas, monitor driver behavior, and improve traffic management. Implementing intelligent crosswalk systems that include flashing lights and audible warnings can provide an extra layer of safety for pedestrians.


The rising number of fatal pedestrian accidents in Old Town San Diego demands immediate action and attention. Through a combination of enhanced infrastructure, education, awareness campaigns, and law enforcement efforts, it is possible to mitigate the risks pedestrians face. The community must come together with local authorities to prioritize pedestrian safety, ensuring that Old Town San Diego remains a vibrant and safe destination for all who visit and reside there. By working collectively, we can prevent further loss of life and create a pedestrian-friendly environment that fosters safety and wellbeing for everyone.

“The rise in pedestrian accidents needs to be addressed by the San Diego community and officials as it continues to be a great cause for concern, many people are losing their lives or becoming severely injured when commuting by foot,” added Mr. Singleton. “My hope is that the family of the deceased victim seek out a knowledgeable attorney that can help them navigate the complex aspects of determining liability and seeking financial compensation.”

Singleton Schreiber San Diego pedestrian accident attorneys can be reached at (619) 771-3473 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.