Ambrose Hicks Killed in Oakland Hit-and-Run Accident
The deadly collision occurred at the intersection of East 12th Street and 22nd Avenue
Ambrose Hicks, 39, was killed in a hit-and-run pedestrian accident at East 12th Street and 22nd Avenue in East Oakland, California, on Thursday, April 16, according to the Oakland Police Department.
Investigators have recovered the Infiniti involved in the deadly collision. Detectives are currently reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to identify the driver who fled the scene. No arrests have been announced.
The man was rushed to a local hospital following the 5:55 p.m. crash. He died a short time later from his injuries.
About a quarter of fatal crashes in the city are hit-and-runs, according to the Safe Oakland Streets report. Nearly half of severe and deadly collisions happen at intersections.
The department's Traffic Investigation Unit is asking anyone with information or video of the crash to contact authorities.
The sudden loss of a loved one in a hit-and-run leaves families grappling with both grief and a desire for justice. While police focus on the criminal investigation to apprehend the fleeing driver, independent investigations often run parallel to secure civil accountability.
National Legal Analyst Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal. "In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from a crash scene, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party. Time is of the essence in cases such as this one, and the victim’s family must ensure that evidence is reviewed efficiently."
Why do drivers flee fatal pedestrian collisions?
How does the recovered Infiniti impact the investigation?
As the search for the driver continues, legal advocates emphasize the importance of protecting the family's rights early in the process.
National Legal Analyst Stefano Formica, of Bond Legal. "We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their best interests are taken care of. Relatives of wrongful death victims are entitled to seek damages for the loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident."
California wrongful death statute
Under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 377.60, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. California applies pure comparative fault. The statute of limitations is 2 years from the date of death.
Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and the decedent's pre-death pain and suffering.