San Carlos Resident Dies After Traffic Collision

A 77-year-old San Carlos resident, struck more than a week ago by a vehicle while lawfully crossing the Alameda de las Pulgas, has died.

Frederick Grote was crossing the busy street at the intersection of Carmelita Drive on September 14 just before 11 a.m. when he was hit by a car driven by an 84-year-old Belmont man.

The driver of the vehicle was traveling south on the Alameda from San Carlos Avenue in his 1995 Toyota Camry when he struck Grote. This morning, the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office was told by the Coroner that Mr. Grote had succumbed to his injuries.

Based on an investigation into the accident, it appears that the Belmont driver was traveling on Alameda de las Pulgas at or below the posted speed limit and did not apply the brakes prior to hitting the victim. According to the driver, he did not see Mr. Grote crossing the street.  

The investigation also revealed that the driver had approximately 200 feet of unobstructed view of the intersection prior to impact.  There is no evidence of distracted driving such as cell phone usage, and no evidence of intoxication.

Due to the circumstances of the collision, the Sheriff's Office has directed the Department of Motor Vehicles to conduct a re-examination of the driver to assess his driving capabilities.  The Sheriff's Office will be forwarding the investigation to the District Attorney for review to determine if criminal charges should be filed.