McDonald's Worker Dies Crossing Santa Margarita Street Sunday

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA — A woman died in Rancho Santa Margarita Sunday night after being struck by a car on her way home from work, the Orange County Sheriff's Department reported.

The incident occurred at 9:30 p.m. on Rancho Santa Margarita Parkway at El Paseo before bringing OCSD, the Orange County Fire Authority and paramedics to the scene. A deeper investigation is being carried out by the Sheriff's Major Accident Reconstruction Team, OCSD tweeted.

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

As of this report, the woman has yet to be identified.

The woman was pronounced deceased at the scene, OCSD Director of Public Affairs Carrie Braun told Patch. Rancho Santa Margarita Councilman Brad McGirr said on Facebook that the woman was walking across the intersection of El Paseo after her shift from the nearby McDonald's when she was struck by the vehicle.

Rancho Santa Margarita resident Emma Contino told Patch that she and her husband could see the 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. She said that while she could not see the victim, who was blocked by a car, she witnessed several people racing to their cars for first aid kits and a woman redirecting traffic away from the scene.

"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," Contino said.

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 woman.

"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.

This is a developing story —- Refresh for more information.