SAN DIEGO, California — A San Diego County deputy director has been identified as the suspect arrested in connection with a fatal hit-and-run collision that occurred in the Southcrest neighborhood on Saturday afternoon.
The San Diego Police Department identified the driver as 41-year-old Assmaa Elayyat. Authorities stated that Elayyat was driving an Infiniti G35 on National Avenue when the vehicle drifted onto the sidewalk and struck a partially enclosed bus bench, hitting a 27-year-old woman who was seated inside.
The victim sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene, according to local police.
Following the collision, the driver reportedly fled the area but was subsequently located and taken into custody. Investigators have not stated whether drugs or alcohol contributed to the crash.
San Diego County officials confirmed on Wednesday afternoon that Elayyat has been an employee since 2020 and serves as a Deputy Director for Self-Sufficiency Services. The department manages the operations of public assistance programs across the county, including CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and CalWORKs. Online meeting records from the Health and Human Services Agency show that Elayyat frequently advised the Social Services Advisory Board regarding county public benefits.
Elayyat took over the deputy director role in 2024. According to Transparent California records, Elayyat received a base salary of just over $162,000 during that year.
County spokesperson Sarah Sweeney expressed deep sadness over the tragic loss of life, extending condolences to the family, friends, and those grieving the victim.
San Diego Police Department Sergeant Saum Poorsaleh stated that Elayyat faces charges of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and hit and run resulting in death.
According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, Elayyat is scheduled to make an initial appearance in San Diego Superior Court on Monday.
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