San Jose Hit-and-Run: Parents Seek Answers | NBC Bay Area

San Jose Hit-and-Run Claims Life of AI Professional, Family Pleads for Answers

A San Jose family is grappling wiht unimaginable grief and demanding justice after 29-year-old Loren Badillo was fatally struck by a hit-and-run driver on Saturday night. The incident, which occurred in the 4900 block of McCoy Avenue, has prompted a desperate search for witnesses and security footage by loved ones and authorities.

The San Jose Police Department has confirmed an investigation is underway,but details remain scarce. Badillo’s family and friends have taken matters into their own hands, canvassing the neighborhood and speaking with residents in hopes of piecing together the events that led to his death.

According to his mother, Tammie Conti, Badillo had recently concluded an argument with his girlfriend, leading him to leave his vehicle and begin walking home – a distance of approximately one mile. It was during this walk that he was struck by an unidentified driver who fled the scene. “I don’t understand what happened,” Conti stated, her voice filled with anguish. “Why didn’t you stay? I know it wasn’t right to leave my son there by himself.”

Badillo, a Livermore native, was a recent graduate of Dublin High School and had just begun a promising career in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). His roommate,Marianna Belmares,described him as a beacon of positivity.”He had a way of bringing light into every room,” Belmares shared. “He always made you feel welcome and accepted. He had such a beautiful heart.”

Did you know? – hit-and-run fatalities have been increasing nationally in recent years,according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Governance.Reporting any facts, even if seemingly minor, can be crucial.

Currently, police have not released any information regarding a suspect vehicle. badillo’s stepfather,James Conti,is urging residents with ring cameras facing the street to come forward with any potential footage. “We really need people to do the right thing,” he implored.

A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, highlighted ongoing safety concerns on McCoy Avenue.”Ten cars are going fast. The lights are poor,very poor at night,” the neighbor explained. “It’s pretty risky.”

Pro tip: – If you witness a collision, immediately call 911. Note the location, vehicle description (if possible), and any details about the driver. Do not approach the scene if it is unsafe.

The tragedy has abruptly altered plans for a joyful holiday season.Badillo was looking forward to visiting his mother in Idaho for Christmas. Now, Conti finds herself making arrangements for her son’s funeral. “He was a good spirit, a good soul, he always made us laugh,” Conti added, her voice breaking. “He was always full of life. I don’t know what we’ll do without that light in our life.”

Reader question: – What safety improvements could be made on McCoy Avenue to prevent future accidents? Share your thoughts on how to make the area safer for pedestrians.

Why did this happen? Loren Badillo was struck by a hit-and-run driver after walking home following an argument with his girlfriend.
Who was involved? Loren Badillo, 29, was the victim. The driver of the vehicle remains unidentified. Family members, friends, and the san Jose Police Department are involved in the investigation.
What occurred? Badillo was walking along McCoy Avenue when he was hit by a vehicle that fled the scene.
How did it end? Badillo died from his injuries. Police are investigating, and his family is pleading for the driver to come forward and for anyone with information to contact authorities. Funeral arrangements are now being made.