Coffee Road near Downey High School: a southbound driver struck two girls in a crosswalk on a Friday night
MODESTO, CALIFORNIA (October 9, 2026): Two teenage girls have died after a driver struck them in a Modesto crosswalk in the 1100 block of Coffee Road, near Downey High School, on Friday night, October 9, according to the Modesto Police Department, as reported by FOX40 and The Modesto Bee. The crash happened at about 8:50 p.m.
According to the police department’s preliminary investigation, the driver was heading south on Coffee Road when the vehicle hit the girls in the crosswalk. Officers performed lifesaving efforts until medical crews took over, and both girls were taken to a hospital. One of them, a 16-year-old girl, died from her injuries. Police confirmed on Monday, October 12, that the second girl had also died over the weekend.
The driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators, and a drug evaluation found no signs of impairment, according to The Modesto Bee. Police are reviewing the scene and looking for surveillance video from the area. No arrest or citation has been announced.
Police have not said how fast the vehicle was moving, whether the crosswalk has a signal or flashing warning lights, or what the lighting was like at the time. The driver has not been identified, and police have not said whether the findings will be sent to prosecutors.
Liability for the Modesto Crosswalk Crash
California Vehicle Code § 21950 generally requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing in a marked or unmarked crosswalk, and Vehicle Code § 22350 prohibits speeds that are unsafe for conditions. Civil Code § 1714 makes every driver responsible for harm caused by a lack of ordinary care. When a public crosswalk is in a dangerous condition, Government Code § 835 can make the public entity responsible. Based on what police have released, the questions include:
- Pedestrians in the crosswalk: Police said the girls were in the crosswalk when they were struck. Drivers generally must yield to people crossing there, which is central to any claim.
- Night and visibility: The crash happened at about 8:50 p.m. Lighting, speed and whether the driver was distracted are likely to be part of the investigation.
- A crossing near a school: The crosswalk is near Downey High School, where students and families often cross. Whether it has enough signs, lights or signals for night use may be reviewed.
- No impairment found: A drug evaluation found no signs of impairment, according to The Modesto Bee. That puts the focus on speed, attention and road conditions.
The families of both girls may bring wrongful death claims under Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60 against anyone found responsible. With two victims, the driver’s insurance may have to be shared, so other coverage, such as underinsured motorist coverage on a household auto policy, may also matter. Civil claims are separate from any criminal case.
Steps to Take After a Fatal Pedestrian Crash in Modesto
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, most pedestrian deaths happen after dark. In crosswalk crashes, signal timing, lighting and video often decide what investigators can prove.
- Request the police report: Ask the Modesto Police Department for the report number and the traffic collision report when it is complete.
- Contact the Coroner: The Stanislaus County Sheriff-Coroner’s Office can explain how families receive autopsy results and death certificates.
- Preserve video: Homes and businesses along Coffee Road may have cameras. Police are already looking for footage, and families can also send written requests asking that it be kept.
- Be careful with insurers: Avoid recorded statements to the driver’s insurance company until you understand your rights.
Wrongful death claims generally must be filed within two years under Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. If the design, lighting or signals of the crosswalk maintained by the City of Modesto are examined, a government claim is generally due within six months under Government Code § 911.2. Contact an attorney promptly to protect your rights.
Investigating the Modesto Crosswalk Crash
We at Carrazco Law, A.P.C., a personal injury and civil rights law firm in Irvine, California, extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the two girls who lost their lives on Coffee Road. Important questions remain: Why was the driver unable to stop for the girls in the crosswalk? And does this crossing near Downey High School have the lighting and warnings needed for the students who use it at night?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car, truck or pedestrian accident anywhere in California, our personal injury attorneys can help you understand your rights and legal options. Call us anytime at (800) 541-3244. Se Habla Español. Free consultation.
Published on October 13, 2026 by M.M., Carrazco Law, A.P.C. The incident described in this article occurred on October 9, 2026.
