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Pedestrian in critical condition after being hit by suspected DUI driver

pedestrian vehicle collision, dui suspect
Citrus Heights police vehicles block off a portion of Glen Tree Drive Thursday night to investigate a collision involving a pedestrian and a vehicle. // CH Sentinel

Citrus Heights police said they are investigating a collision that occurred on a residential side street near Madera Park Thursday night, involving a suspected drunk driver and a pedestrian.

Police Lt. Jason Russo said the collision occurred on the 8000 block of Glen Tree Drive, about a half-mile from Old Auburn Road. He said the 42-year-old pedestrian involved in the collision was transported to a local hospital and was listed in critical condition Friday morning, but is expected to survive.

The lieutenant said the 35-year-old driver, Crystal McCollum of Citrus Heights, was arrested after she “displayed objective signs of alcohol.” Russo confirmed she lives “a short distance” from the accident scene, and said speed is also believed to have been a factor.

A neighbor on Glen Tree Drive, who preferred to not give her name, told The Sentinel she heard a very loud noise and screeching of tires, followed by screaming outside. She said it “literally sounded like two cars hit head on” and didn’t realize a pedestrian was involved until seeing a body on the ground lying motionless.

Online inmate records show McCollum is charged with two DUI-related felonies, with bail set at $50,000. Sacramento County Superior Court records indicate she was also previously placed in a “diversion” rehabilitation program, after being charged with a drug-related felony and a misdemeanor in 2007.

In a news release about the collision, police said drivers and pedestrians are reminded to use caution on roadways, particularly when traveling on streets in residential neighborhoods. The department advised drivers to be aware of vehicle speed and said pedestrians are “encouraged to utilize crosswalks and wear bright colored clothing if walking at night.”

The portion of Glen Tree Drive near the collision site does not have street lights.

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