OC Coroner IDs Woman Killed By Car In Rancho Santa Margarita

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA — A woman who was struck and killed by a car in Rancho Santa Margarita Sunday night was identified by the Orange County Coroner Tuesday morning.

Elena Romero Alvarado, 36, was on her way home from her job at a nearby McDonald's when she crossed the intersection of Rancho Santa Margarita Parkway and El Paseo and was hit by a car. She was a Rancho Santa Margarita resident and leaves behind three children, according to a Facebook flyer distributed by her cousin, Erica Romero.

Romero Alvarado was pronounced dead at the scene, the Orange County Sheriff's Department reported. The 9:30 p.m. incident attracted the attention of several Rancho Santa Margarita residents, some exiting their cars to try to provide aid and others directing traffic on the street away from the accident.

OCSD Public Information Officer Sgt. Todd Hylton said that there were no arrests made after the incident, as drugs and alcohol did not appear to be a factor in the collision.

Romero wrote on the Facebook flyer that her cousin was a daughter, a mother, a sister and a niece. Romero Alvarado's friend, Sarahi Rivera Ojeda wrote on a GoFundMe page: "I can't explain how much this hurts and imagining what could of gone through her head at that moment. She [is an] amazing woman and will be missed so dearly... Her smile, her wise words, her laughter, her hard work for her kids."

According to the Facebook flyer, Romero Alvarado's remains will be transported to her hometown in Mexico for burial services.

Rancho Santa Margarita resident Emma Contino told Patch that she and her husband could see the Sunday night incident from their apartment unit.

"My husband and I had just got home and we heard tires screeching and then, a few seconds later, shouting," Contino said. "I think it was all resolved by midnight, as I stayed awake until it was over. It was very traumatizing to both my husband and I. I hope her family is well, and if she has any pets that they are being taken care of."

As a result of the devastating incident, Contino placed flowers on the intersection of Rancho Santa Margarita Parkway and El Paseo in remembrance of the Romero Alvarado. The first bouquet was placed on Monday morning, and by Monday evening, Contino said other residents also began placing flowers and candles at the location.

"I would love to help in any way I can for her family, friends or pets, and putting flowers on the side of the road where she passed is the least I can do for now," Contino said.

Romero Alvarado's family is accepting donations through Venmo, as well as a GoFundMe page started by Rivera Ojeda. As of this report, over $5,400 has been raised to cover funeral expenses for Romero Alvarado and to provide aid for her three children.

Read more: McDonald's Worker Dies Crossing Santa Margarita Street Sunday

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