Highly Regarded Local Activist Killed in Hit-and-Run After Dispute

On April 22nd, 2026, The Advocate reported that a beloved local activist was killed by a hit-and-run driver after a brief dispute over parking. It is a senseless, heartbreaking tragedy. The community is grieving Dannielle Spillman, who has been a staple of San Francisco’s transgender community for more than two decades. The responsible driver, 30-year-old Valentino Cash Amil, has been arrested and is now facing a murder charge. 

What We Know About the Deadly Hit-and-Run

The death of Dannielle Spillman in San Francisco began with something that should have passed without consequence. She encountered a driver whose car was blocking part of a sidewalk, and she spoke up about it. Pedestrians have the right to access sidewalks in San Francisco and all motorists are responsible for clearing the way when parking (and standing) their vehicle. 

The San Francisco Standard reports that witnesses say that the exchange between Ms. Spillman and the driver (Valentino Cash Amil) was brief. Prosecutors allege that Mr. Amil used his vehicle as a weapon to strike Ms. Spillman (74 years of age) and fled the scene of the collision. He was arrested soon after. The charges include felony hit-and-run and murder. 

Ms. Spillman’s life sits in sharp contrast to the violence that ended it. She spent years in the city and moved through it in a way that left an impression on people who knew her. Indeed, she has been a beloved activist within San Francisco’s transgender community for many years. Her friends describe someone attentive and generous, someone who loved music and stayed connected to local communities. It is a terrible tragedy. 

Steps to Take After Being Struck By an Aggressive Hit-and-Run Driver

Unfortunately, aggressive driving behavior, including road rage, remains far too common in San Francisco and throughout California. An aggressive hit-and-run crash can lead to serious injuries or even a fatality. In California, all drivers have the basic legal responsibility to operate their vehicle in a safe manner. The state also imposes a strict duty on motorists to stop their vehicle, remain at the scene, and render aid if there is a collision. If you or your loved one was the victim of an aggressive hit-and-run driver, you should be ready to take the following steps:

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention (Emergencies First): All car accident injuries should be evaluated by a licensed physician. As many common injuries arise with a delayed onset, it is important to get medical care right away after a bad crash. Of course, with serious injuries, emergency medical attention is always the top priority. 
• Document the Scene (Any Evidence Can Help): To the extent you or your loved one is able to do so, you should document the scene of the collision. Note the location, take pictures, and gather any evidence that can be used to demonstrate what happened and track down the responsible driver. A partial license plate, vehicle color, make and model, and other details can all be relevant.  
• Report the Hit-and-Run Crash to Police: A hit-and-run is a very serious criminal offense in California. A driver who strikes another person and flees the scene could face a serious felony charge, as well as civil liability. You should report the incident to the San Francisco Police Department or another local or state law enforcement agency.
• Notify Your Own Insurer if You Have a Policy: If you have a policy, you should notify your own insurance carrier that a crash happened. Many hit-and-run accident injury claims go through uninsured motorist coverage (UM coverage) in California. Prompt notice is likely required under the policy. You only need to give basic facts and should avoid speculation about fault or your injuries at this point in the process. 
• Call a Top San Francisco Car Accident Lawyer: Car accident claims are complicated, especially with hit-and-runs. It is normal to have a lot of questions after a crash. You cannot rely on any insurer, even your own, to look out for your best interests. The sooner you have an attorney on your side, the better. At Choulos, Choulos & Wyle, our top-rated San Francisco car accident lawyers have extensive experience with hit-and-run cases. 

We Fight for Justice for Victims and Families in San Francisco

At Choulos, Choulos & Wyle, our San Francisco car accident lawyers are trial-tested, justice-driven advocates for victims and families. We take on the most serious of cases, including wrongful death claims. Contact us today at (415) 432-7290 to set up a free, no obligation initial consultation. With an office in San Francisco, we fight for justice for victims and families throughout the Bay Area.