Reinforcing Road Safety: A Call to Action Following the Tragic Death of Emery Chalekian
August 14, 2025
On April 25, 2025, 12‑year‑old Emery Chalekian was tragically struck and killed while using a marked crosswalk on Encinitas Boulevard—a moment that shattered her family and reverberated across the community. Despite overwhelming public outcry, the Encinitas City Council has yet to declare a local roadway state of emergency, leaving urgent safety improvements stalled and future tragedies looming.
The Family's Plea and Community Momentum
In June 2025, dozens of community members—many wearing bright yellow shirts in Emery’s honor—flooded council chambers, calling for swift action. The council initially agreed to schedule the emergency declaration for a future meeting.
Yet when City Hall reconvened in August, the proposal was conspicuously absent once again, prompting renewed frustration from Emery’s parents, John and Bridget Chalekian. “It kind of hurts to not see it be enacted or at least voted on,” John shared, while Bridget underscored that the delay could prolong critical safety enhancements like flashing lights or interactive speed signs.
Community voices have rallied around the family. Laura Van Dunsen, a local parent and family friend, implored the council: “We must ensure that no more families in Encinitas have to experience this kind of loss. Take action and declare a local roadway state of emergency now.”
Legal Steps Taken by the Chalekians
Amid the frustration, the Chalekians, through counsel, have submitted a government tort claim to the City of Encinitas, signaling potential legal action against both the city and the driver involved. The claim outlines damages including loss of care, emotional distress, and the loss of guidance and companionship. Though the filing of such a claim is a procedural precursor to a lawsuit, the family emphasizes that their goal extends beyond legal recompense—it is about ensuring that no other child is lost under similar circumstances.
Why a “Roadway State of Emergency” Matters
Declaring a roadway state of emergency is not merely symbolic. It unlocks expedited access to funding, resources, and regulatory flexibility to implement safety measures without delay. Potential interventions could include:
- Flashing beacons and enhanced crosswalk lighting, to increase visibility.
- Interactive speed-feedback signs, alerting drivers to their current speed.
- Improved signage and pavement markings, reducing confusion at high-risk intersections.
- Traffic calming infrastructure, such as curb extensions or raised crosswalks.
Without such tools, municipalities are often bound by lengthy procurement and procedural requirements—time during which preventable tragedies may continue to occur.
Call to Action: Why Team Mason Stands with Emery's Memory
At Team Mason, we believe Emery’s tragic death underscores an urgent public safety issue: when city councils delay action, children and pedestrians remain vulnerable. Legal professionals and community advocates must hold elected officials accountable—not only to preserve public safety, but to demonstrate responsiveness and integrity in governance.
Recommendations for municipal leaders:
- Immediately place the emergency declaration back on the council agenda. The visibility and momentum are clear—don’t let bureaucratic logjams stall fundamental safety.
- Engage transparently with the Chalekian family and community stakeholders. A public forum or special hearing can signal good faith and reaffirm commitment.
- Fast-track high-impact, low-cost safety upgrades. Even temporary measures like flashing lights can make crosswalks safer while longer-term infrastructure is pursued.
- Institutionalize a rapid safety response protocol. Ensuring similar hazards are addressed promptly in the future.
Conclusion
The intersection where Emery Chalekian lost her life is more than a tragic site—it is a focal point for community grief, legal scrutiny, and policy reform. A roadway state of emergency must not remain elusive. It’s the simplest, most immediate tool for change—and the difference between stagnant inaction and life-saving progress.
Team Mason works on sad cases like this everyday but is honored to help families in their time of need. Visit www.TheMasonFirm.com
for more information.
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