Man, 21, fatally struck while walking on freeway in El Cajon
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service January 20, 2026 (El Cajon) – A 21-year-old man from Kaibeto, Arizona walked onto Interstate 8 west from Mollison Avenue, amid low-lighting conditions on January 17 at 1:20 a.m. He was struck by a 2021 Toyota Venza driven by an El Cajon man,49. The pedestrian succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead on scene by medical personnel. The driver was traveling at around 65 miles per hour, according to Officer Jasmine Lopez with the California Highway Patrol. The driver of the Toyota sustained no injuries as a result of the crash. At this time, alcohol and/or drugs were not a factor in this crash for the driver of the Toyota. “Always use sidewalks and crosswalks,” says CHP Captain Michael Monteagudo. “Walking in the roadway puts you at serious risk of injury or worse. Be alert, be seen and never assume drivers can see you.” Printer-friendly version
County lighting Administration Center in support of Sydney attack victims; Menorah lighting set for Dec. 22
Printer-friendly version Photo courtesy San Diego County East County News Services Dec. 17, 2025 (San Diego County) — Behind the support of San Diego County Supervisor Joel Anderson from District 2, the County of San Diego will illuminate its County Administration Center in blue and white tonight, Dec. 17. The illumination in blue and white across from San Diego Bay, serves as a visible beacon of unity. It is being lit in remembrance of victims and to show solidarity with survivors of the recent anti-Semitic attack targeting the Jewish community in Sydney, Australia. Fifteen innocent individuals were murdered by two gun-wielding terrorists. The gunfire resulted in dozens of injured victims who were celebrating the first night of Hanukkah on Bondi Beach. See related story here. The county’s gesture also celebrates Hanukkah, also known as the Jewish Festival of Lights, and its timeless themes of perseverance, miracles and renewed hope. There will also be an official Menorah lighting at the County Administration Center after sundown on Monday, Dec. 22, the last night of Hanukkah. “The only time that Hanukkah was recognized by the County in this way was when Supervisor Anderson requested it,” said County Assessor/Recorder/County Clerk Jordan Z. Marks. “As a Jew, I’m grateful that Joel understands this is a sacred season of joy, love and light.” Tonight’s lighting coincides with the fourth night of Hanukkah which began at sundown Dec. 14 and continues through Dec. 22. The eight-day celebration commemorates the ancient miracle of a small cruse of oil that burned for eight days, symbolizing hope, resilience, and the triumph of faith over adversity. Anderson emphasized the county’s commitment to religious inclusivity during the holiday season. “Jordan is an incredible partner and I share his belief that all faiths should be recognized during this holiday season,” Anderson said. “We refuse to place a cap on love and celebration here in San Diego County.” County Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer, who represents District 3 and has been vocal about menorah lighting at the County Administration building in the past, addressed the Sydney attacks on social media on Dec. 14. “Tonight I’m lighting the first candle with a heavy heart,” Lawson-Remer wrote. “Holding close everyone impacted by the violence at a Hanukkah gathering in Sydney. To my Jewish community here and everywhere: you are not alone. May we keep choosing light, and keep choosing each other.” Printer-friendly version