Driver Arrested in Tragic San Jose Hit-and-Run That Claimed E-Scooter Rider's Life

San Jose, CA – A significant development has emerged in the tragic hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of a woman riding an e-scooter earlier this month. Authorities have announced the arrest of Jaime Daniel Lopez, 21, of San Jose, in connection with the fatal collision that shocked the community.

The incident occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, March 2, 2024, around 1:20 a.m., at the intersection of North Capitol Avenue and McKee Road.

According to the San Jose Police Department, a 2017 Honda Civic was traveling southbound on North Capitol Avenue when it collided with a 54-year-old woman operating an e-scooter, who was attempting to cross North Capitol Avenue in an unmarked crosswalk.

Following the impact, the driver of the Honda Civic reportedly fled the scene without stopping to render aid or provide information, leaving the severely injured woman behind.

Emergency services responded quickly, and the victim was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries later that day. The Santa Clara County Medical Examiner-Coroner's Office has since identified the victim as Mary Jane Sanchez, a San Jose resident.

The San Jose Police Department's Traffic Investigations Unit immediately launched a thorough investigation into the harrowing incident.

Their diligent work led to the identification of the suspect vehicle and, subsequently, the arrest of Jaime Daniel Lopez. Lopez was taken into custody and booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail on suspicion of felony hit-and-run and vehicular manslaughter, grave charges reflecting the severity of the crime and its devastating outcome.

This senseless loss of life marks the 10th traffic fatality in San Jose for 2024, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety and responsible driving in the city.

The incident underscores the critical importance of remaining at the scene of an accident, particularly when serious injuries are involved, and the severe legal consequences for those who choose to flee.

While an arrest has been made, the investigation remains active and ongoing. The San Jose Police Department is urging anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has additional information to come forward.

Witnesses can contact Detective Dellicarpini of the Traffic Investigations Unit at 4264@sanjoseca.gov or (408) 277-4654. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the P3TIPS mobile app, by calling the tip line at (408) 947-STOP, or on the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers website.