Teen struck and killed by SLO County animal control truck

The 18-year-old victim has been identified as Brooklyn Gutierrez.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The California Highway Patrol has identified the pedestrian struck and killed by a San Luis Obispo County Animal Services vehicle last week as 18-year-old Brooklyn Gutierrez. The incident occurred shortly after 4 p.m. on Feb. 25 as Gutierrez tried to cross Orcutt Road near La Lomita Way just outside the city of San Luis Obispo. The teen, who lived in the area, died at the scene.

Why it matters

Pedestrian fatalities involving government vehicles are rare but concerning incidents that raise questions about driver training, road safety, and the need for greater awareness and precautions around vulnerable road users.

The details

According to the report, the animal control truck struck Gutierrez as she attempted to cross the road. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.

  • The incident occurred shortly after 4 p.m. on Feb. 25, 2026.
  • Gutierrez was struck and killed at the intersection of Orcutt Road and La Lomita Way just outside San Luis Obispo.

The players

Brooklyn Gutierrez

An 18-year-old pedestrian who lived in the area and was struck and killed by an animal control truck.

San Luis Obispo County Animal Services

The government agency that operated the vehicle involved in the fatal collision.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The California Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into the cause of the crash.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for heightened safety measures and driver training to protect vulnerable road users like pedestrians, especially when government vehicles are involved.