Yuma, AZ – 21-Year-Old Pedestrian Killed in Hit-and-Run on S. Ave B

Yuma, AZ (December 7, 2025) — A 21-year-old pedestrian died on December 6 after a fatal hit-and-run collision near South Avenue B and West County 14th Street. The crash occurred around 4:45 a.m., prompting an immediate response from the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies arrived after receiving reports of a vehicle striking a pedestrian along the roadside. When units reached the area, they located the victim and confirmed that the driver fled without stopping. Authorities identified the victim as Mariella Acosta of Yuma. Medical personnel pronounced her deceased at the scene.

Investigators believe the involved vehicle may be a sedan or coupe with front passenger-side damage near the headlamp area. Officials have not yet determined the exact make, model, or color of the vehicle. Deputies continue searching for the driver and the damaged car.

The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office plans to review nearby cameras that may show the vehicle before or after the crash. Investigators will also look for witnesses who were driving through the area during the early morning hours. The investigation remains active and ongoing as deputies work to locate the involved driver.

We send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mariella Acosta during this challenging time.

Pedestrian Fatalities in Yuma

Pedestrian fatalities remain a serious concern throughout Yuma. Many residents walk along rural or semi-rural roads where lighting is limited and shoulder space remains narrow. Streets like South Avenue B and West County 14th Street can carry consistent traffic even during early morning hours, which increases the risk of severe collisions.

Pedestrians remain extremely vulnerable during any crash. Vehicles travel with enough force to cause life-threatening trauma even at lower speeds. Since pedestrians have no physical shield, they often suffer catastrophic injuries on impact. These injuries may include head trauma, chest injuries, spinal damage, and internal bleeding. Many victims cannot survive such harm without immediate medical intervention.

Hit-and-run crashes add another layer of danger. When drivers flee instead of stopping, they prevent victims from receiving urgent medical care that could save lives. They also hinder investigators and delay justice for grieving families. These actions leave families with unanswered questions and significant emotional pain.

Families face many challenges after fatal pedestrian accidents. They must manage funeral arrangements, unexpected financial burdens, and overwhelming grief. Many families also struggle with severe emotional trauma that lasts long after the crash. These hardships can feel heavier when the driver responsible has not yet been identified.

A personal injury attorney can help families pursue justice after hit-and-run pedestrian deaths. An attorney can review police reports, locate witnesses, and examine nearby surveillance footage. They can also coordinate with investigators to gather evidence that identifies the involved driver. This support strengthens the case and helps ensure accountability.

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize compensation or deny claims entirely during hit-and-run cases. They may argue that coverage limitations prevent full recovery or shift responsibility away from the policyholder. Legal representation, such as the support we offer in National Injury Help, ensures that families’ rights remain protected. Proper compensation can cover funeral costs, lost financial support, pain and suffering, and other long-term needs.

Yuma continues working to improve pedestrian safety through road design, education, and enforcement. However, accidents still occur when drivers behave recklessly, drive distracted, or flee after causing harm.

If you or your loved one suffered harm in a Yuma pedestrian crash, legal assistance is available today. Contact National Injury Help at (866) 932-4817 to speak with our skilled wrongful death lawyer in Yuma who can protect your rights and guide you through every step of the recovery process.