San Francisco police arrest two in separate fatal collisions

Incidents include one that killed a 2-year-old child

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:38am by Ben Kaplan

San Francisco police have arrested two individuals in connection with separate fatal collisions in the city, including one incident that resulted in the death of a 2-year-old child. The arrests come amid ongoing concerns about traffic safety and enforcement in the city.

Why it matters

These tragic incidents underscore the need for improved road safety measures, traffic enforcement, and accountability for drivers whose actions lead to loss of life. The deaths of vulnerable road users like young children highlight the urgency of addressing dangerous driving behaviors in San Francisco.

The details

In the first incident, police arrested a 35-year-old driver for vehicular manslaughter after their vehicle struck and killed a 2-year-old child crossing the street. The second arrest involved a 42-year-old driver who fled the scene after fatally striking a pedestrian. Both cases are under active investigation by the San Francisco Police Department.

  • The first fatal collision occurred on March 15, 2026.
  • The second fatal collision took place on March 19, 2026.

The players

San Francisco Police Department

The local law enforcement agency responsible for investigating the two fatal collisions and making the arrests.

35-year-old driver

The individual arrested for vehicular manslaughter in the collision that killed a 2-year-old child.

42-year-old driver

The individual arrested for fleeing the scene after fatally striking a pedestrian.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“These tragic incidents underscore the need for improved road safety measures, traffic enforcement, and accountability for drivers whose actions lead to loss of life.”

— San Francisco Police Department, Statement

What’s next

The San Francisco Police Department is continuing its investigations into both fatal collisions, and the cases will be referred to the district attorney's office for potential prosecution.

The takeaway

These fatal collisions highlight the urgent need for San Francisco to prioritize traffic safety and enforcement to protect vulnerable road users, especially children, and hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.