Hit-and-run near Encanto leaves 22-year-old seriously injured, dog killed

Police are searching for the driver who fled the scene after striking Edwardo Ramos and his dog.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

A 22-year-old man named Edwardo Ramos was seriously injured and his dog was killed in a hit-and-run crash in the Emerald Hills neighborhood of San Diego. Ramos suffered multiple broken bones and other injuries when he was struck by a driver who ran a stop sign and fled the scene. Ramos' family is calling for accountability and justice.

Why it matters

Hit-and-run crashes are an ongoing problem in many communities, often leaving victims with severe injuries and families dealing with trauma. This incident highlights the need for improved road safety measures and stronger enforcement to hold negligent drivers accountable.

The details

According to police, Edwardo Ramos was crossing Roswell Street at Melrose Place when he was struck by a driver who ran a stop sign and fled the scene. The crash broke both of Ramos' legs, injured his lower spine, and dislocated his left ankle. Ramos' family dog, Selenica, was also killed in the collision. Ramos' brothers and sisters ran to help after hearing the crash, but the driver did not stop.

  • The incident occurred on Valentine's Day.
  • Ramos has been hospitalized for days receiving intense treatment for his injuries.
  • Ramos is expected to need at least six more months to recover and get back on his feet.

The players

Edwardo Ramos

A 22-year-old man who was seriously injured in the hit-and-run crash near his home in the Emerald Hills neighborhood of San Diego.

Sebastian Ramos

Edwardo Ramos' brother, who expressed grief and a desire for accountability over the incident.

Selenica

Edwardo Ramos' family dog, who was killed in the collision.

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What they’re saying

“It's like, it's really hard, it's like a punch in the gut seeing my little brother like that.”

— Sebastian Ramos, Edwardo Ramos' brother (nbcsandiego.com)

“I'm really grateful. We're really lucky to have him still.”

— Sebastian Ramos, Edwardo Ramos' brother (nbcsandiego.com)

“Really heartless and reckless to be doing that in this neighborhood.”

— Sebastian Ramos, Edwardo Ramos' brother (nbcsandiego.com)

“It's very important to see the man be held accountable for the things he'd done to my little brother.”

— Sebastian Ramos, Edwardo Ramos' brother (nbcsandiego.com)

What’s next

Police are working to obtain and review video footage from a neighbor's doorbell camera to try to identify the vehicle and driver involved in the hit-and-run. They are urging anyone with information to come forward.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the devastating impact of hit-and-run crashes and the need for improved road safety, stronger enforcement, and greater accountability for negligent drivers who flee the scene and leave victims to suffer the consequences.