A California mom of three was killed in a suspected DUI hit-and-run Tuesday night — allegedly at the hands of a man who already had a prior DUI conviction.
Fernando Saldana, a 26-year-old Escondido man, was arrested after Vanessa Wheyland was struck near Redwood Avenue and Carlsbad Boulevard, close to Tamarack Beach.
Police said Saldana fled the scene after the crash.
“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 for Wheyland’s family.
Wheyland was found in the roadway with major injuries just before 8 p.m. after what friends said was a family walk. She was taken to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Police tracked Saldana to a location just over a mile from the crash using evidence left at the scene, information from community members and automated license plate readers.
Saldana’s prior DUI conviction took on particular significance in the case. Under California law, that prior conviction allowed prosecutors to charge him with second-degree murder under the “Watson Murder” doctrine.
He was also arrested on charges of leaving the scene of a collision resulting in 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 graduate of San Diego State University, she also served as the CEO of Wheyland Electric, a prominent electrical contracting company catering to Carlsbad and the greater 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.
