Arrest Made In San Leandro Hit-And-Run That Killed Beloved Elementary School Chef

SAN LEANDRO, CA — An Oakland resident has been arrested and charged in connection with a May crash that left a beloved San Leandro elementary school chef dead, police said.

It's unclear how the crash on May 11 happened, but the San Leandro Police Department says Chuliao Wu, 32, ran from the scene, leaving a vehicle behind in the 14400 block of Corvallis Street.

Andrea Sanchez, a chef at Corvallis Elementary School, was in the other vehicle involved in the crash. She was taken by medical personnel to a local hospital, where she died, according to the San Leandro Police Department.

Wu was taken into custody in connection with the crash on Thursday and charged the following day with vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and felony hit and run, police said.

"Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family, friends, coworkers, and everyone affected by this loss,” San Leandro Police Department Lieutenant Jeff Walton said. "This case required a coordinated effort across multiple units and demonstrates the commitment of our personnel to thoroughly investigate serious incidents."

Sanchez was honored with a vigil in the days after her death. She was described as a "beloved staff member, friend, and bright light within our school and throughout the community."

"She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered," school officials said. "Memories of her love, laughter, and kindness bring comfort and peace."