A 20-year-old woman was run over by a California State Parks lifeguard driving a pickup truck at Half Moon Bay State Beach on Wednesday, authorities said.
The incident occurred around 3:45 p.m. at Francis Beach — the main stretch of Half Moon Bay State Beach in San Mateo County — where the victim was lying on the sand when the truck rolled over her, according to the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office.
Witnesses described the horrifying scene as emergency crews worked to dig the woman out from beneath the vehicle.
Background
The seasonal lifeguard employed by California State Parks was on duty at the time of the incident. According to investigators, the lifeguard was allegedly distracted during the accident. The victim, a 20-year-old woman, was treated at the scene and transported by ambulance to a local hospital with injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening.
California State Parks spokesperson Adeline Yee confirmed the woman's injuries in a statement to media outlets. Francis Beach serves as a popular campground offering both tent and RV camping sites along the San Mateo County coast.
The Investigation
The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation into the incident. No arrests have been made, and authorities have not announced any criminal charges at this time. Investigators are reviewing witness statements and examining the circumstances that led to the vehicle striking the sunbather.
California State Parks officials said they are cooperating fully with the sheriff's office inquiry. The seasonal lifeguard's employment status was not immediately disclosed.
Key Takeaways
- Incident occurred around 3:45 p.m. at Francis Beach, Half Moon Bay State Beach in San Mateo County
- A California State Parks seasonal lifeguard allegedly struck the victim while driving a pickup truck
- Victim, a 20-year-old woman lying on the sand, sustained non-life threatening injuries and was hospitalized
- The lifeguard was allegedly distracted during the accident, according to investigators
- No arrests have been made; San Mateo County Sheriff's Office continues investigating
What's Next
The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office investigation remains active. Authorities have not indicated when — or if — criminal charges will be filed against the lifeguard. Updates are expected as the probe progresses.