A hit-and-run collision in Vista, California, claimed the life of 35-year-old Heath Michael Ogle on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. Ogle, a resident of Vista, was found unresponsive in the roadway near 2210 N Santa Fe Avenue next to a one-wheel electric skateboard. A passerby driving eastbound discovered him and immediately called 911. Law enforcement and emergency responders arrived at the scene, but Ogle was pronounced dead due to multiple blunt-force injuries. Authorities believe he was struck by an unknown vehicle, which fled the scene without stopping. 

Pedestrian vs Vehicle Accidents Become Significantly More Dangerous When the Driver Flees the Scene Without Rendering Aid

Pedestrian hit-and-run accidents are among the most devastating traffic incidents. Unlike vehicle occupants, pedestrians and electric skateboard riders have no physical protection, making them highly vulnerable to severe injuries upon impact. In many cases, drivers involved in hit-and-run collisions fail to stop due to panic, intoxication, or fear of legal consequences, leaving victims without immediate medical attention that could save their lives. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), hit-and-run accidents are on the rise, with thousands of pedestrians and cyclists killed annually due to reckless or negligent drivers who flee the scene. In these situations, obtaining justice for victims can be challenging, as law enforcement must rely on witness statements, surveillance footage, and forensic evidence to identify the responsible party. 

“The tragic loss of Heath Michael Ogle highlights the grave consequences of hit-and-run accidents,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber. “Every pedestrian or alternative vehicle rider deserves to feel safe on the road, yet too often, reckless drivers put lives at risk. Our firm has worked on numerous cases like this, fighting to bring justice to grieving families.”

Legal Recourse for Families Who Lose Loved Ones in Hit and Run Accidents

The families of victims who are killed in hit-and-run accidents may choose to seek compensation for their loss. If the driver of the hit-and-run can be identified, the family may choose to pursue a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death claim may provide them with financial relief for expenses related to funeral and burial costs, medical bills, loss of financial support their deceased loved one may have provided, and more. 

If the hit-and-run driver cannot be identified, the family may choose to seek compensation through their uninsured motorist coverage. 

If you have lost a loved one in a hit-and-run pedestrian accident, contact Singleton Schreiber today to learn more about your options. Call us at (619) 771-3473 or email us at info@singletonschreiber.com to schedule your free initial consultation. 

A tragic two-vehicle collision on Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway resulted in the deaths of a Waimea couple on the morning of February 18, 2025. The incident has left the community in mourning and is under investigation by Big Island police.

According to police reports, the collision occurred when a silver sedan, driven by 51-year-old Reginald Kaleilehua Tolentino Jr., attempted to overtake several vehicles, including a tractor-trailer hauling a full tank of fuel. As the sedan moved southbound, it collided head-on with a northbound pickup truck. Both Reginald and his wife, 55-year-old Colette Marie Kaleialoha Tolentino, were transported to Kona Community Hospital, where they later succumbed to their injuries.

The driver of the pickup truck, a 55-year-old male, suffered life-threatening injuries and was initially taken to North Hawai‘i Community Hospital. He was later transferred to Queen’s Medical Center in Oʻahu for more extensive treatment.

This devastating crash marks the sixth and seventh traffic fatalities on the Big Island this year, a stark increase compared to four fatalities at the same time last year.

The Dangers of Reckless Driving

Collisions like the one involving the Tolentinos serve as a somber reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving, particularly when drivers attempt risky maneuvers such as overtaking multiple vehicles. These types of accidents often occur in high-traffic areas where larger vehicles, like trucks, are present and can create additional hazards for smaller vehicles.

“Car accidents resulting from excessive speeding or reckless driving are not just preventable, they often constitute negligence under the law and can have severe legal consequences,” said Brett Schreiber, partner at Singleton Schreiber. “This tragedy underscores the critical need for responsible driving, especially on highways, where high-speed collisions frequently result in catastrophic injuries and significant liability for at-fault parties.”

Legal Options for Victims and Families

For those affected by such incidents, legal recourse may be available to help ease the burden of medical bills, funeral costs, and other expenses. Families who lose loved ones in fatal accidents due to another driver’s negligence may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim.

“A wrongful death claim can help bring a sense of justice for families while ensuring they are financially supported during a difficult time,” Schreiber added.

This tragic event also serves as a call to action for drivers to be more cautious and respectful on the road, particularly when navigating busy highways.

For those seeking more information or assistance in pursuing a wrongful death claim, Singleton Schreiber offers free consultations. Contact us at (808) 582-8062 or email info@singletonschreiber.com.