The Encinitas community is reeling from an unimaginable tragedy that unfolded on the evening of April 25, 2025, when 12-year-old Emery Chalekian lost her life in a devastating accident. The vibrant young girl, known for her bright smile and kind heart, was struck by a vehicle while crossing the street in a marked crosswalk, leaving her family, friends, and neighbors in profound grief. The incident, which occurred at the bustling intersection of Encinitas Boulevard and Village Square Drive, has prompted an outpouring of support for the Chalekian family and renewed calls for road safety in this close-knit coastal town.
The accident occurred just before 7 p.m. on Friday, when San Diego County Sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of a collision involving a pedestrian. According to investigators, the sequence of events began when a 44-year-old man driving a Nissan Xterra westbound on Encinitas Boulevard collided with a southbound Ford Fusion, also driven by a 44-year-old man. The impact caused the Nissan to veer out of control, striking Emery as she lawfully crossed the street. Despite the rapid response of emergency personnel, Emery succumbed to her injuries at the scene, a loss that has shaken the community to its core.
Both drivers remained at the scene and are cooperating fully with authorities. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department has stated that neither drugs nor alcohol are believed to have contributed to the collision. The North Coastal Station Traffic Investigators, alongside the Sheriff’s Traffic Accident Reconstruction Team, are meticulously piecing together the events leading up to the crash. Their investigation aims to determine the precise factors—whether mechanical failure, driver error, or road conditions—that set off this tragic chain of events. Authorities have closed off portions of the intersection during their inquiry, causing temporary traffic disruptions but underscoring the gravity of their work.
Emery Chalekian was a beloved sixth-grader at Oak Crest Middle School, where her infectious enthusiasm and warmth touched countless lives. Described by teachers and classmates as a compassionate friend and a curious learner, she was deeply involved in school activities and cherished by those who knew her. Emery leaves behind her parents, John and Bridget Chalekian, and her younger brother, Colter, who are grappling with an irreplaceable void. The family’s extended network of relatives and friends has rallied around them, offering solace amid their sorrow.
In a testament to Encinitas’ tight-knit spirit, the community has mobilized to support the Chalekians during this harrowing time. A Meal Train initiative has been launched, enabling residents to provide home-cooked meals, arrange food deliveries, or contribute gift cards to alleviate the family’s daily burdens. Local businesses and faith groups have also stepped forward, organizing vigils and fundraising efforts to cover funeral expenses. A memorial outside Oak Crest Middle School has grown steadily, adorned with flowers, candles, and handwritten notes honoring Emery’s radiant legacy. Plans for a formal memorial service are underway, with details expected to be shared soon as the community prepares to celebrate her life.
The sheriff’s department is urging witnesses to come forward with any information that could aid the investigation. Those who saw the collision or captured it on video are encouraged to contact the department directly at (858) 565-5200. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through San Diego County Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477 or via their website, ensuring that every detail, no matter how small, is considered.
This heartbreaking incident has sparked broader conversations about pedestrian safety in Encinitas, a city known for its walkable streets and family-friendly atmosphere. Residents are calling for enhanced crosswalk visibility, stricter traffic enforcement, and potential infrastructure changes to prevent future tragedies. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on honoring Emery’s memory and supporting her family through their grief. For now, Encinitas holds its collective breath, united in mourning and determined to keep a young girl’s light shining bright.