Woman Fatally Struck by Car at Taco Bell After Alleged Cash Theft Attempt in New Hampshire

By Ronald Rodriguez Last updated Sep 24, 2025

Manchester, NH – A tragic incident unfolded at a Taco Bell parking lot in Manchester, New Hampshire, where a pedestrian was fatally struck by a vehicle driven by a woman involved in an alleged cash theft attempt. The victim, 60-year-old Juliana Harbeck, died following the accident on September 17, as authorities continue their investigation into the fatal altercation.

The Fatal Incident and Initial Arrest

Maria Camila Posada Canizales, 27, was arrested and charged with felony conduct in connection to the fatal accident. Police reports indicate that Canizales struck Harbeck with her car in the Taco Bell parking lot and initially fled the scene.

Harbeck was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries. Canizales later surrendered herself to authorities on Monday, providing statements about the incident.

Conflicting Accounts of the Tragic Event

According to the arrest affidavit, Canizales explained that Harbeck approached her vehicle on foot and offered to sell her cigarettes.

Canizales stated that upon taking out her cash, which included her rent money, Harbeck allegedly attempted to seize the money and refused to release it. Canizales described a struggle ensuing between the two before she drove off in panic, confessing that she did not realize she had hit Harbeck.

However, Harbeck’s boyfriend, who was present during the incident, gave a different version. He witnessed Harbeck being pulled toward the car and punched by Canizales.

Attempting to intervene, the boyfriend reportedly saw Canizales shift the car into gear, causing Harbeck to fall. Disturbingly, Canizales is alleged to have then reversed her car over Harbeck before fleeing.

Witness Reports and Ongoing Investigation

Several witnesses corroborated the boyfriend’s account and provided the license plate number of Canizales’ vehicle to the police.
Authorities attempted to locate Canizales at her registered home address but initially received no response.
Canizales was detained and scheduled to remain in custody awaiting her court hearing on Tuesday.

“This case highlights the tragic consequences that can arise from a moment of panic and alleged criminal behavior,” said law enforcement officials involved in the investigation.

For further details regarding the case, visit Law&Crime.

Reflections and Next Steps

The ongoing investigation will seek to establish the full circumstances leading to the fatal crash and the advisability of criminal charges beyond felony conduct. This incident underscores the importance of careful legal examination in cases where self-defense claims and fatal outcomes intersect.

Key Points to Remember:

Maria Camila Posada Canizales, 27, charged following the death of Juliana Harbeck.
The incident occurred in the Taco Bell parking lot on September 17.
Allegations include attempted theft, physical altercation, and fatal vehicle strike.
Multiple witness accounts support the involvement of Canizales in the altercation and subsequent hit-and-run.

As the legal proceedings proceed, the Manchester community and observers await further clarity on this tragic event.

What do you think about this incident? Have you ever witnessed or experienced a sudden altercation in a public place? Share your thoughts in the comments below!