UPDATE: A second driver has tragically died from injuries sustained in a violent head-on crash in Willow Glen, San Jose. This incident, which occurred on Saturday, has now prompted investigators to suspect that the driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.
The fatal collision was reported at 2:35 PM on Foxworthy Avenue near Jarvis Avenue. According to the San Jose Police Department, an 81-year-old man, identified as Christian Herbert Hygelund, was driving a white 2018 GMC Yukon when he attempted to pass a green 2018 Subaru Forester. His vehicle collided with the Subaru, sending it into oncoming traffic, where it head-on crashed into a blue 2012 Honda CR-V.
The woman driving the Honda, identified as 74-year-old Ellen Jo Orcutt, was pronounced dead at the scene. Orcutt was known in the community for her advocacy work, especially helping the poor and unhoused individuals in Santa Clara County. Her daughter has set up a GoFundMe page to honor her legacy, stating, “She was a lifelong, humble servant and dedicated to families in need.”
Hygelund was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries and tragically succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday. His death marks the 31st and 32nd traffic fatalities in San Jose for 2024, highlighting a significant public safety concern in the city.
Authorities have confirmed that Hygelund was likely under the influence at the time of the crash, raising serious questions about road safety and the dangers of driving while impaired.
This devastating incident has sparked an outpouring of grief in the community. Orcutt’s daughter emphasized that any contributions will go towards charities and organizations that were important to her mother, “Just as she would have wanted.”
Police are urging anyone with information about the crash to reach out to Detective Tori DelliCarpini at the San Jose Police Department’s traffic investigations unit at 408-277-4654 or via email at [email protected].
As investigations continue, the community reflects on the impact of this tragedy and the urgent need for increased awareness about the dangers of impaired driving. This incident serves as a profound reminder of the stakes involved in road safety, and the lasting effects such tragedies can have on families and communities alike.
