A mother from California, who has three children, lost her life in a hit-and-run incident suspected to be caused by a DUI on Tuesday night. The alleged perpetrator, a 26-year-old man named Fernando Saldana from Escondido, had a history of DUI offenses.
The tragic event occurred near Redwood Avenue and Carlsbad Boulevard, close to Tamarack Beach, where Vanessa Wheyland was struck. According to law enforcement, Saldana fled the scene after the collision.
Nicole Check, who organized a GoFundMe campaign for Wheyland’s family, expressed the immense loss: “Last night, Vanessa was tragically struck and killed by a driver, leaving behind her loving husband and three children.”
Friends mentioned that Wheyland was out for a family walk when the accident happened, and she was found with serious injuries shortly before 8 p.m. She later succumbed to her injuries at a nearby hospital.
Law enforcement tracked down Saldana, using evidence from the scene, community tips, and automated license plate readers, just over a mile from where the crash took place.
The fact that Saldana had a previous DUI conviction is significant. California law allows for second-degree murder charges under what’s known as the “Watson Murder” doctrine in cases like this.
In addition to murder charges, he faces charges for leaving the scene of an injury or death, DUI causing injury or death, and gross vehicular manslaughter.
“Vanessa was a devoted wife, an incredible mother, and a cherished friend whose love and presence touched so many people,” Check further remarked.
A graduate of San Diego State University, Wheyland was also the CEO of Wheyland Electric, a major electrical contracting firm serving Carlsbad and the broader San Diego Area.
As of now, the Carlsbad Police Department hasn’t disclosed any details regarding Saldana’s immigration status. He has been booked into the Vista Detention Facility and is set to appear in court on Friday.
One individual on Instagram highlighted concerns regarding California’s laws, saying, “So sad—CA needs tougher deterrents and stronger laws.”
Community frustration has been mounting over local traffic safety, as neighbors reported several crashes on that road, some with tragic outcomes that have devastated the area.
A memorial has been erected at Tamarack Beach in her honor, where family and friends are planning a vigil for Thursday night.
“Her family was her entire world, and this devastating loss has left everyone who loved her heartbroken,” Check concluded.
