San Diego County, January 6, 2026
San Diego County authorities have confirmed the identities of four individuals who recently lost their lives in separate traffic incidents. These tragic events underscore pressing concerns about road safety in the region, prompting investigations and community initiatives aimed at enhancing traffic safety.
San Diego County Identifies Four Victims in Recent Traffic Fatalities
San Diego County authorities have identified four individuals who tragically lost their lives in separate traffic accidents over the past month. These incidents highlight ongoing concerns about road safety in the region.
Recent Fatalities
- December 22, 2025: Cameron Sirkow, 27, of Glendora, died after crashing his vehicle into a parked tractor-trailer in Encinitas.
- December 19, 2025: Trent Newberry, 34, was killed in a motorcycle collision with a pickup truck on State Route 76 near Bonsall.
- December 18, 2025: John McCarthy, 57, of San Diego, died at the scene of a motorcycle crash involving a pickup truck near Aliso Creek Rest Area.
- December 6, 2025: Susana Gascon, 39, was struck by a sedan while crossing North Mollison Avenue in El Cajon; she succumbed to her injuries on December 28.
Ongoing Investigations
Authorities are actively investigating these incidents to determine the causes and circumstances surrounding each fatality. The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office is leading these investigations and has urged anyone with information to come forward.
Background on Traffic Safety Concerns
San Diego County has experienced a series of traffic-related fatalities in recent months, raising concerns about road safety. In response, local authorities and organizations are implementing measures to address these issues and enhance public safety.
Community Initiatives
In November 2025, Circulate San Diego organized the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, honoring those lost in traffic accidents and advocating for safer streets. The event aimed to raise awareness and promote changes to prevent future tragedies.
Additionally, the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) has initiated the development of the Regional Vision Zero Action Plan, a data-driven strategy to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries in the region. This plan involves collaboration with 19 jurisdictions and 17 federally recognized tribes to identify high-risk areas and implement safety improvements.
Conclusion
The recent traffic fatalities in San Diego County underscore the critical need for continued efforts to improve road safety. Ongoing investigations and community initiatives aim to address these challenges and prevent future loss of life on the roads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What were the dates and locations of the recent traffic fatalities in San Diego County?
The recent traffic fatalities occurred on the following dates and locations:
- December 22, 2025: Cameron Sirkow, 27, of Glendora, died after crashing his vehicle into a parked tractor-trailer in Encinitas.
- December 19, 2025: Trent Newberry, 34, was killed in a motorcycle collision with a pickup truck on State Route 76 near Bonsall.
- December 18, 2025: John McCarthy, 57, of San Diego, died at the scene of a motorcycle crash involving a pickup truck near Aliso Creek Rest Area.
- December 6, 2025: Susana Gascon, 39, was struck by a sedan while crossing North Mollison Avenue in El Cajon; she succumbed to her injuries on December 28.
What is the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office doing about these incidents?
The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office is actively investigating each of these incidents to determine the causes and circumstances surrounding the fatalities. They have urged anyone with information to come forward to assist in these investigations.
What initiatives are being implemented to improve road safety in San Diego County?
In response to recent traffic fatalities, local authorities and organizations are implementing measures to enhance road safety. These include community initiatives like the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, organized by Circulate San Diego, and the development of the Regional Vision Zero Action Plan by the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG). The Vision Zero plan aims to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries in the region through data-driven strategies and collaboration with multiple jurisdictions and tribes.
How can the public contribute to improving road safety in San Diego County?
The public can contribute to improving road safety by staying informed about traffic laws, reporting unsafe driving behaviors, and participating in community initiatives focused on road safety. Engaging with local organizations and supporting efforts to implement safety measures can also make a significant impact.
Key Features of the Recent Traffic Fatalities in San Diego County
| Date | Location | Victim | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 22, 2025 | Encinitas | Cameron Sirkow, 27 | Vehicle collision with a parked tractor-trailer |
| December 19, 2025 | Bonsall | Trent Newberry, 34 | Motorcycle collision with a pickup truck on State Route 76 |
| December 18, 2025 | Near Aliso Creek Rest Area | John McCarthy, 57 | Motorcycle crash involving a pickup truck |
| December 6, 2025 | El Cajon | Susana Gascon, 39 | Pedestrian struck by a sedan while crossing North Mollison Avenue; succumbed to injuries on December 28 |
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