UPDATE: A second driver has tragically died following a violent head-on collision in San Jose, prompting police to suspect driving under the influence (DUI). The crash occurred last Saturday around 2:35 p.m. on Foxworthy Avenue in Willow Glen, resulting in the deaths of two individuals, including a dedicated community advocate.
The devastating incident unfolded when an 81-year-old man, identified as Christian Herbert Hygelund, was driving a white 2018 GMC Yukon eastbound. As he attempted to pass a green 2018 Subaru Forester, he swerved into oncoming traffic, colliding head-on with a blue 2012 Honda CR-V. The driver of the Honda, 74-year-old Ellen Jo Orcutt, died at the scene, confirmed by the Santa Clara County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s Office.
Authorities report that Hygelund sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday. Investigators revealed they have reason to believe Hygelund was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.
Orcutt was well-known in her community for her compassionate work with families in need and the unhoused population in Santa Clara County. A GoFundMe page created by her daughter emphasizes her lifelong dedication to helping others. “She was a humble servant, and contributions will be donated to charities she cared about,” the page states.
This tragic incident marks the 31st and 32nd traffic fatalities in San Jose this year, a significant increase compared to 44 traffic deaths recorded at the same point in 2024, according to local data.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the collision to contact Detective Tori DelliCarpini with the SJPD traffic investigations unit at 408-277-4654 or via email at [email protected].
As San Jose grapples with the impact of this heartbreaking event, the community mourns the loss of a beloved figure and grapples with the urgent issue of road safety amid rising traffic fatalities.
