VISALIA, Calif. — The Visalia community is mourning the tragic loss of 36-year-old Jessica De La Cruz, who was killed in a hit-and-run accident early Sunday morning, January 18, 2026.
According to the Visalia Police Department, just after midnight officers responded to the intersection of Giddings Street and Howard Avenue for a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle. When police arrived, they found De La Cruz lying in the roadway. The driver involved had fled the scene.
De La Cruz was transported by ambulance to Kaweah Health, but despite medical efforts, she sadly passed away from her injuries.
Authorities have described the suspect vehicle as a 2004–2005 Honda Civic with possible front-end damage and are seeking the public’s help in identifying the driver. Anyone with information, photos, or video related to the incident is urged to contact the Visalia Police Department Traffic Unit at 559-713-4221.
As family, friends, and neighbors grieve, Jessica De La Cruz is remembered for the life she lived and the positive impact she had on those around her. Her sudden and tragic passing has left a profound sense of loss in the community.
The community extends its deepest condolences to all who loved Jessica during this difficult time.
