Disturbing past of accused hit-and-run driver revealed as he faces judge in death of California mom of 3

A California man accused of killing a mother of three in a DUI hit-and-run was driving with a suspended license from a previous drunken-driving conviction when he allegedly struck her and fled.

Fernando Cruz Saldana, 26, pleaded not guilty Friday to murder and other charges stemming from the Sept. 15 death of Vanessa Wheyland near Redwood Avenue and Carlsbad Boulevard, close to Tamarack Beach.

Wheyland, a mother of three, was walking with her family when she was struck just before 8 p.m., according to friends. She suffered major injuries and was rushed to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Police say Saldana fled after the crash. His vehicle was found about a mile away with help from information provided by community members, automated license plate readers and evidence left at the scene.

Saldana appeared in court Friday and pleaded not guilty to murder and several other charges, NBC 7 reported.

The case took an even more serious turn because of Saldana’s previous DUI conviction in San Diego in 2023, according to a criminal complaint. His license was still suspended from that conviction when the deadly crash happened.

Under California law, that prior conviction allowed prosecutors to charge Saldana with second-degree murder under the “Watson Murder” doctrine.

He also faces charges of leaving the scene of a collision resulting in injury or death, driving under the influence causing injury or death and gross vehicular manslaughter while under the influence.

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Saldana is being held without bail following his arraignment.

Wheyland’s death has left behind a husband and three daughters.

“Vanessa was a devoted wife, an incredible mother, and a cherished friend whose love and presence touched so many people,” a GoFundMe for her family read.

“Her family was her entire world, and this devastating loss has left everyone who loved her heartbroken.”

A candlelight vigil was held Thursday at Tamarack Beach, where thousands showed up to remember Wheyland, Fox 5 reported.

The deadly crash has also fueled frustration among neighbors who told NBC 7 they have seen several crashes along the roadway, including fatal crashes, with each loss devastating the community.