URGENT UPDATE: A second driver has tragically died from injuries sustained in a violent head-on crash in San Jose’s Willow Glen neighborhood. The incident, which occurred at approximately 2:35 PM on Saturday, has now raised suspicions of DUI involvement, according to police.
The fatal collision began when an 81-year-old man, identified as Christian Herbert Hygelund from Los Gatos, veered into oncoming traffic while driving a white 2018 GMC Yukon. Reports indicate that Hygelund was attempting to overtake a green 2018 Subaru Forester on Foxworthy Avenue when he crashed head-on into a blue 2012 Honda CR-V. The driver of the CR-V, 74-year-old Ellen Jo Orcutt, died instantly at the scene.
Hygelund, who was initially hospitalized in critical condition, succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday. Investigators have since confirmed that they suspect he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.
This tragic event marks the 31st and 32nd traffic fatalities in San Jose this year, a stark increase compared to the 44 deaths recorded by this time in 2024.
Orcutt was known in her community as a dedicated advocate for the poor and unhoused, with a GoFundMe page set up by her daughter highlighting her lifelong commitment to helping vulnerable families in Santa Clara County. “She was a lifelong, humble servant of her lord and savior,” her daughter wrote, adding that funds raised will support charities that Orcutt cared about.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding this tragic incident to contact Detective Tori DelliCarpini with the San Jose Police Department’s traffic investigations unit at 408-277-4654 or via email at [email protected].
As this story develops, it serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers of impaired driving. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving situation.
