by SANTA ANA — A tragic incident early Wednesday morning left a 69-year-old woman dead after she was struck by a garbage truck while crossing a neighborhood street near Shelton Street and Bishop Street, according to the Santa Ana Police Department. The collision occurred shortly before 8 a.m., just steps away from Pio Pico Elementary School, an area typically crowded with children and families at that hour.
What Police Say Happened
Authorities identified the victim as Maria Rubalcava de Ruesga, a Santa Ana resident. Paramedics with the Orange County Fire Authority pronounced her dead at the scene.
According to a preliminary statement issued by SAPD, the garbage truck was traveling eastbound on Bishop Street before the driver made a right turn onto southbound Shelton Street at the neighborhood roundabout.
“The truck subsequently struck Rubalcava as she was crossing the street,” the department stated in its release.
Police confirmed that the driver stayed at the location and cooperated fully with investigators.
Community Impact Near Elementary School
The crash occurred less than a block from Pio Pico Elementary School, where morning drop-off activity was underway. Local officials acknowledged the emotional toll on students, families, and staff.
A spokesperson for the City of Santa Ana issued a statement offering condolences:
“We extend our deepest condolences to the woman’s family, friends and those impacted by this loss. The accident occurred near Pio Pico Elementary School when families and children were in the area. The City has contacted Santa Ana Unified School District’s Superintendent and trustee to offer any assistance the City can provide.”
In response, Santa Ana Unified School District leaders confirmed that a crisis response team had been activated to support students, school leaders, and staff at Pio Pico Elementary School.
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Ongoing Investigation
SAPD’s Collision Investigation Unit continues to gather information on the circumstances leading to the fatal crash. Detectives are reviewing witness statements and nearby surveillance video to determine whether speed, visibility, or other factors played a role.
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the collision or may have additional information to come forward. Individuals can contact investigators at (714) 245-8224.
Community Safety Concerns
Fatal pedestrian incidents near schools often raise questions about crosswalk visibility, traffic patterns, and the safety of children walking to class. While officials have not yet issued any policy recommendations, the proximity of the crash to an elementary school has intensified community concerns about road safety in residential zones.
Public safety officials emphasized that more details will be released once the collision investigation is complete.
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