Driver Charged With Murder In Fatal Auto-Pedestrian Crash

SANTA CRUZ, CA – A 24-year-old Mount Hermon woman was arrested on murder charges after a Friday collision killed a pedestrian on the 700 block of Modesto Avenue in Santa Cruz, according to authorities, who said they are continuing to investigate the fatality.

The 23-year-old victim, whose name was not released, was walking west on Modesto at about 3:25 p.m. when struck by a 1999 black Infiniti SUV, also traveling west, in the intersection at Sacramento Avenue. She was pronounced dead at the scene, the Santa Cruz Police Department said.

The driver, identified as Kelsey Knoll, was arrested on suspicion of murder, but "there is potential for additional charges," police said. She was located in her vehicle about a block away from the accident scene.

A California Highway Patrol drug-recognition expert examined Knoll to determine if she was driving under the influence, and results of blood and alcohol testing are pending. police said.

"It is unknown at this time if alcohol, drugs or vehicular speed were a factor in the collision," the agency said, adding that no motive is known.

Detectives are reviewing video surveillance in the area and interviewing witnesses. Anyone with information or who saw the collision is asked to contact investigators at (831) 420-5820. Anonymous tips can also be sent to the tip line (831) 420-5995.

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--Images via SCPD