Caltrans worker killed in hit-and-run crash near Vacaville; suspect arrested
VACAVILLE -- A Caltrans landscape maintenance worker was killed Friday morning while working along Interstate 80 in Solano County.
Quanda McGadney, 51, was killed while working near Lagoon Valley Road on Interstate 80, near Vacaville. A Caltrans spokesperson said McGadney was struck by a hit-and-run driver on westbound Interstate 80 just after 10 a.m. She died on the scene from her injuries.
The California Highway Patrol has arrested a suspect.
McGadney is the first Caltrans District 4 employee to die on the job since 2017. She is the 37th in the history of District 4 and the 190th Caltrans worker to lose their life on the job since 1921. The agency's District 4 represents Bay Area counties.
"The loss of one of our own public servants in this tragic incident is being felt heavily within the Caltrans family today. Our thoughts and heartfelt support are focused on her family, friends and colleagues at this time," said Caltrans acting director Steven Keck.
"This tragedy is particularly painful, coming so close to our workers memorial service just a little over a month ago, and drives home how dangerous our work on California's roadways can be," Keck said. "Our focus on safety and the 'Move Over' law, and asking the public to increase their awareness of the people working on the highways on their behalf are part of our continued effort to eliminate these tragic incidents."
"Jennifer and I were saddened to learn of the death of Caltrans Maintenance Worker Quanda McGadney, a dedicated public servant to the state for more than 18 years," said Gov. Gavin Newsom. "We extend our deepest sympathies to her family, friends and Caltrans colleagues for their loss."
In McGadney's honor, flags are being flown at half-staff at the state Capitol in Sacramento.
McGadney joined Caltrans in 2018. She is survived by her 9-year-old daughter, Nairobi, and two sisters, Priscilla Stevenson and Candice McGadney.
To help McGadney's family, a memorial fund is being established through the California Transportation Foundation.