A California mother of three was killed in a suspected DUI hit-and-run Tuesday night, allegedly by a driver who had previously been convicted of DUI.
Fernando Saldana, 26, of Escondido, was arrested after Vanessa Wheyland was struck near Redwood Avenue and Carlsbad Boulevard, close to Tamarack Beach.
Authorities said Saldana left the scene following the collision.
“Last night, Vanessa was tragically struck and killed by a driver, leaving behind her loving husband and three children,” Nicole Check wrote in a GoFundMe created for Wheyland’s family.
Wheyland was discovered in the roadway with major injuries shortly before 8 p.m., after what friends said had been a family walk. She was transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Investigators located Saldana just over a mile from the crash scene using evidence recovered at the scene, tips from community members and automated license plate reader technology.
His prior DUI conviction is particularly significant in the case. Under California law, prosecutors were able to file a second-degree murder charge under the “Watson Murder” doctrine because of that earlier conviction.
Saldana was also arrested on allegations of leaving the scene of a collision resulting in injury or death, driving under the influence causing injury or death, and gross vehicular manslaughter.
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“Vanessa was a devoted wife, an incredible mother, and a cherished friend whose love and presence touched so many people,” Check wrote.
A proud San Diego State University graduate, Wheyland was also the CEO of Wheyland Electric, a prominent electrical contracting company serving Carlsbad and the wider San Diego area.
The Carlsbad Police Department has not released any information regarding Saldana’s citizenship status. He was booked into the Vista Detention Facility and is set to face a judge Friday.
One Instagram user pointed to California’s laws after Wheyland’s death, writing: “So sad- CA needs tougher deterrents and stronger laws.”
The deadly crash has also fueled frustration among neighbors who told NBC 7 they have seen several crashes along the roadway, including fatal crashes, with each loss devastating the community.
A memorial has been set up for her at Tamarack Beach, where loved ones plan to hold a vigil Thursday night.
“Her family was her entire world, and this devastating loss has left everyone who loved her heartbroken,” Check wrote.