A California mother of three was killed in a suspected DUI hit-and-run Tuesday night, allegedly by a man with a previous DUI conviction.
Fernando Saldana, 26, of Escondido, was arrested after Vanessa Wheyland was struck near Redwood Avenue and Carlsbad Boulevard, close to Tamarack Beach.
According to police, Saldana fled after 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 campaign for Wheyland’s family.
Wheyland was found in the roadway with severe injuries shortly before 8 p.m., after friends said she had been taking a family walk. She was transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Investigators located Saldana at a site slightly more than a mile from the crash using evidence recovered at the scene, tips from community members and automated license plate readers.
Saldana’s previous DUI conviction could play a significant role in the case. Under California law, that conviction enabled prosecutors to charge him with second-degree murder under the “Watson Murder” doctrine.
He was also arrested on suspicion of leaving a collision involving injury or death, driving under the influence 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 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 greater San Diego area.
The Carlsbad Police Department has not disclosed Saldana’s citizenship status. He was booked into the Vista Detention Facility and is scheduled to appear before a judge Friday.
Following Wheyland’s death, one Instagram user criticized California’s laws, writing, “So sad- CA needs tougher deterrents and stronger laws.”
The fatal crash has also intensified concerns among neighbors, who told NBC 7 they have witnessed multiple crashes along the roadway, including deadly ones. Each loss, they said, has deeply affected the community.
A memorial has been established at Tamarack Beach, where loved ones are planning a vigil Thursday night.
“Her family was her entire world, and this devastating loss has left everyone who loved her heartbroken,” Check wrote.
