Escondido, California, November 30, 2025
An arrest has been made in the tragic hit-and-run case of 11-year-old Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz, who was killed while playing outside his home in Escondido. Hector Balderas Amador, 44, was taken into custody and booked on suspicion of felony hit-and-run causing death. The investigation continues as police seek additional information from the community.
Escondido, California: Arrest Made in Fatal Hit-and-Run of 11-Year-Old Boy
Escondido, California – An arrest has been made in connection with the fatal hit-and-run of 11-year-old Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz, who was struck and killed on November 26, 2025. Hector Balderas Amador, 44, was taken into custody on Saturday and booked into the Vista Detention Facility on suspicion of felony hit-and-run causing death. The vehicle involved in the crash was also recovered, according to the Escondido Police Department.
The incident occurred around 5 p.m. on November 26, when Aiden was playing outside his home in the 400 block of East Washington Avenue. Witnesses reported that he went into the street to retrieve a soccer ball when he was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. Aiden was transported to Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego, where he succumbed to his injuries on Thanksgiving morning.
Escondido Police Chief Ken Plunkett expressed gratitude for the community’s assistance in identifying the suspect: “We are grateful and appreciative for the trust and partnership our police department shares with the community, which aided in the identification and arrest of the driver in this tragic incident.” The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
Background
Hit-and-run incidents involving pedestrians, especially children, are a serious concern in Escondido. In 2023, the city reported approximately 2,865 traffic collisions, with 879 involving injuries, fatalities, or hit-and-run accidents. The community’s vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement are crucial in addressing and preventing such tragedies.
Key Details
| Date of Incident | November 26, 2025 |
|---|---|
| Victim | Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz, 11 |
| Location | 400 block of East Washington Avenue, Escondido, CA |
| Suspect | Hector Balderas Amador, 44 |
| Charges | Felony hit-and-run causing death |
| Vehicle Recovered | Yes |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing |
FAQ
What happened in the hit-and-run incident?
An 11-year-old boy, Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz, was struck by a vehicle while retrieving a soccer ball outside his home in Escondido. The driver fled the scene, and Aiden later died from his injuries.
Who has been arrested in connection with the incident?
Hector Balderas Amador, 44, was arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run causing death. The vehicle involved in the crash was also recovered.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
How can the community assist in such investigations?
Community members can assist by providing information to law enforcement, which can be crucial in solving cases and preventing future incidents.
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