San Diego, California — A 6-year-old boy riding his bicycle with his family in San Diego’s Pacific Beach neighborhood was fatally injured after a driver allegedly struck him and then ran him over a second time while fleeing, according to police and multiple reports.
Authorities identified the child as Hudson Stephen O’Loughlin, who was riding along Pacific Beach Drive around 3:45 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, when the crash occurred near Ingraham Street.
What police say happened
Investigators say a 32-year-old woman driving an SUV struck Hudson as she turned into an alley while the boy was crossing. Police allege the driver stopped briefly, then drove forward again, running over the child before leaving the scene.
Hudson was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries, authorities said.
Police located the driver hours later in National City, where she was taken into custody. Investigators stated that alcohol is not believed to have been a factor in the crash.
Witness recounts moments after impact
David Morrow, who told local media he was driving behind the SUV at the time, said Hudson and his father were riding ahead of him when the vehicle suddenly turned into the alley.
“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,” Morrow said.
Morrow said the driver stopped only briefly before driving forward again.
“Right after she hit the kid, she ran over him twice. Like, both wheels ran over the kid,” he said.
Father says family was just steps apart
Hudson’s father, Matthew O’Loughlin, said the family had been riding closely together when the crash happened.
“My son is behind me, my other son and wife are about 10 feet behind us,” he told reporters.
“No cars, I cross over, I’m fine … I look back to check on him and the lady just runs him over.”
Community mourns, calls for safer streets
In the days following the crash, a memorial of flowers, candles, and handwritten notes has grown along Pacific Beach Drive, where neighbors, cyclists, and passersby have stopped to honor Hudson’s life.
Residents and cycling advocates have also renewed calls for improved street safety, particularly near alleys and high-traffic coastal areas where pedestrians and cyclists frequently pass.
Remembering Hudson
A GoFundMe launched to support the family had raised more than $67,000 as of Monday, Jan. 19. The fundraiser described Hudson as “a vibrant, curious, and deeply loved 6-year-old” whose enthusiasm touched everyone around him.
“Hudson was a bright, curious child who loved all things science,” the page reads. “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 the North Park area and dreamed of becoming a military scientist.
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School district responds
The San Diego Unified School District confirmed Hudson was a first-grade student at McKinley Elementary School.
In a letter shared with families, Principal Jonathan Morello said the district’s crisis response team would be on campus starting Tuesday to support students, staff, and families.
“Our entire school community is deeply saddened by this loss, and our hearts are with Hudson’s family during this incredibly difficult time,” Morello wrote.
Investigation ongoing
Authorities said the investigation remains active. Anyone with information related to the crash is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.
As the Pacific Beach community grieves, Hudson’s death has become a painful reminder of the vulnerability of children and cyclists on city streets.
What changes do you think could help prevent tragedies like this in busy neighborhood areas? Share your thoughts in the comments.
