[01-01-2026] San Diego County, CA – Pedestrian Killed After Being Struck on Eastbound I-8 Near Jackson Drive in La Mesa

A person walking on eastbound Interstate 8 near Jackson Drive in La Mesa was struck and killed early Thursday morning, January 1, 2026.

According to the California Highway Patrol, 911 callers reported seeing the pedestrian walking on the shoulder or in the lanes of eastbound I-8 shortly before 1:20 a.m. 

Within two minutes, another caller reported that the pedestrian had been struck. The individual, an adult whose gender has not been confirmed, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the vehicle that struck the pedestrian stopped and cooperated with officers. CHP reported that the driver was not arrested.

All eastbound lanes were closed for nearly two hours during the investigation, and drivers were diverted at Spring Street. The freeway reopened around 3:20 a.m.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?

Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:

• Check yourself for any injuries.
• Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
• Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
• Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
• Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
• Seek immediate medical attention.
• Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.

What A Lawyer Can Do For You

Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.