Stuns Pacific Beach Boy Fatal SUV Crash

On Saturday, Jan. 17, a 6-year-old boy named Hudson Stephen O’Loughlin was struck by a vehicle while riding his bicycle in San Diego’s Pacific Beach neighborhood, resulting in fatal injuries. The incident has sparked a community outpouring of grief and a call for safer streets.

At a Glance

• A 6-year-old boy was fatally hit by a vehicle in Pacific Beach on Jan. 17.
• The driver, a 32-year-old woman, fled the scene but was later arrested in National City.
• A GoFundMe raised $67,000 in support of the family.

Details of the Incident

The crash took place in the early afternoon, a time when many families were out cycling. The vehicle was a SUV driven by a 32-year-old woman. She turned into an alley near Ingraham Street, a location where pedestrians and cyclists often cross. The SUV stopped for several seconds before driving forward, running Hudson over twice before the driver fled.

The Fatal Crash

Police said a 32-year-old woman driving an SUV struck Hudson while turning into an alley near Ingraham Street. The vehicle stopped for several seconds, then drove forward, running the child over before leaving the scene. Hudson was taken to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Witness Statement

David Morrow, who was driving behind the SUV at the time, told CBS 8: “The father was ahead of the kid, and he went across, and then the kid was coming across, and the lady in front of me cut right into the alley and didn’t see the kid, obviously, and ran over the kid.” Morrow added: “Right after she hit the kid, she ran over him twice. Like, both wheels ran over the kid.”

Police Investigation

Police located the driver hours later in National City and took her into custody. Authorities said alcohol was not believed to be a factor and asked anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.

GoFundMe Highlights

The GoFundMe initiative raised more than $67,000 as of Monday, Jan. 19. The fundraiser describes Hudson as a vibrant, curious, and deeply loved 6-year-old whose energy was contagious. It also reads: “Hudson was a bright, curious child who loved all things science. He filled every room with his spirit and had a passion for BMX, cycling, swimming, skating, and building with Legos.” According to the fundraiser, Hudson attended school in North Park, dreamed of becoming a military scientist, and brought “so much joy, kindness, and wonder to everyone he met.” The fundraiser’s description of Hudson’s interests reflects his bright personality.

Family and Community Reactions

Matthew O’Loughlin, Hudson’s father, told FOX 5 that he was just steps ahead of his son when the vehicle turned into the alley. He said the driver ran him over. Neighbors and cyclists have gathered along Pacific Beach Drive, leaving flowers, candles, and handwritten messages. The growing memorial has become a tribute to Hudson and a call for safer streets. The family has been deeply affected by the loss. Neighbors have shown solidarity by donating and offering support.

School Support

The San Diego Unified School District confirmed that Hudson was a first-grade student at McKinley Elementary School. The district’s crisis response team will be on campus beginning Tuesday, Jan. 20 to support students, staff, and families. Principal Jonathan Morello wrote a letter expressing deep sadness. He said the entire school community is deeply saddened by the loss and that their hearts are with Hudson’s family during this incredibly difficult time. The school will provide counseling and resources to help students cope with the tragedy. The school will continue to provide counseling and resources for students and families.

Community Memorial

Neighbors have left flowers, candles, and handwritten messages along Pacific Beach Drive. The memorial has become a gathering place for neighbors and cyclists.

Timeline of Events

Key Takeaways

• The fatal crash underscores the need for safer streets in high-traffic neighborhoods.
• Community memorials and fundraising efforts demonstrate collective support for the family.
• School crisis response teams play a vital role in helping children process traumatic events.
• The incident underscores the importance of traffic safety measures.