WASHINGTON, D.C. — A woman was struck and killed Friday morning while crossing a busy intersection in Northwest Washington, according to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). The deadly crash occurred shortly before 9 a.m. at the intersection of 13th Street and Harvard Street, NW, an area known for heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
Officers responding to the scene found the victim unconscious and unresponsive. Emergency medical teams attempted life-saving measures before rushing her to a nearby hospital. Despite their efforts, the woman, identified as 61-year-old Rosa Cabezas of Southeast D.C., was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Her sudden death has left loved ones and community members mourning another life lost to a traffic collision in the District.
Investigators from MPD’s Major Crash Unit are leading the inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Preliminary findings indicate Cabezas was crossing 13th Street when she was struck by a Toyota Rav4 making a right-hand turn. The driver of the SUV remained at the scene and cooperated with police. At this time, no charges have been filed, though officials said the investigation remains active.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether Cabezas was within a marked crosswalk or if factors such as driver distraction, speed, or visibility contributed to the collision. Detectives are reviewing evidence, canvassing the area for surveillance footage, and seeking eyewitness accounts to establish a clearer timeline of events. Police are urging anyone with information to contact them at (202) 727-9099 or provide anonymous tips by texting 50411.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety in Washington, D.C., where traffic deaths continue to alarm city leaders and safety advocates. Intersections like 13th and Harvard are often cited as high-risk due to the combination of busy vehicle lanes, cyclists, and foot traffic. Cabezas’ death comes as the District continues efforts under its Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate traffic-related fatalities, though progress has been slow.
Residents in the area expressed shock and sorrow at the tragedy, noting that drivers frequently rush through turns at the intersection. Advocacy groups have renewed calls for stronger safety measures, including improved crosswalk visibility, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and infrastructure changes designed to protect pedestrians. As police continue their investigation, questions remain about whether the driver involved could face charges. For now, authorities stress the importance of vigilance from both motorists and pedestrians in preventing similar tragedies.