The East Bay community is reeling from the devastating news of Peggy Moore’s untimely death in a tragic car accident alongside her wife, Hope Wood. Moore, a prominent figure in East Bay politics, had worked tirelessly on numerous campaigns, including for former President Barack Obama. The accident, which also claimed the life of Wood, occurred on the evening of Friday, May 10th, as the couple was returning home from a concert in Southern California.
Peggy Moore Car Accident
Reports indicate that Moore and Wood were involved in a head-on collision that resulted in their simultaneous passing. The details of the accident paint a grim picture, with another member of Wood’s family critically injured. The collision, which occurred on Route 76 in unincorporated San Diego County, involved two vehicles—a grey Chrysler 300 and a white Jeep Gladiator. Eyewitnesses suggested that the Chrysler may have been traveling in the wrong direction, leading to the catastrophic collision.
The aftermath of the accident was horrific, with the Chrysler engulfed in flames and the Jeep partially ablaze. Emergency responders, including Calfire, NCFPD, CHP, and San Diego Sheriff’s, rushed to the scene, but tragically, Moore and Wood could not be saved. The closure of SR 76 for four hours underscored the severity of the incident, which claimed four lives and left another individual fighting for survival.
Tributes to Peggy Moore, aged 60, flooded social media following the heartbreaking news. Colleagues, friends, and admirers remembered Moore as a dedicated activist and a force in local politics. Lateefah Simon, a BART board director and Democratic candidate, fondly recalled Moore’s impactful presence, describing her as a steadfast supporter of mayors, members of Congress, and presidential candidates. Moore’s political career was illustrious, serving as a deputy field director for Obama’s historic 2008 campaign and as a senior adviser for Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf.
In 2016, Moore embarked on her own political journey, running for the Oakland City Council, albeit unsuccessfully. Her commitment to public service and advocacy for marginalized communities never wavered. Despite running against her friend and ally, Rebecca Kaplan, Moore maintained a spirit of camaraderie, reflecting her ethos of collaboration over competition. Notably, Moore and Kaplan had previously joined forces to defeat a state ballot proposition targeting same-s3x marriages.
Peggy Moore Obituary
Throughout her career, Moore prioritized uplifting women of color and supporting their endeavors. Her warmth, compassion, and infectious smile endeared her to many, transcending political divides. Rep. Barbara Lee, in a poignant social media tribute, hailed Moore as not only a friend and activist but also as one of the finest organizers she had known.
The void left by Peggy Moore’s passing is profound, echoing across the East Bay and beyond. Her legacy of advocacy, resilience, and inclusivity will endure, serving as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. As the community mourns her loss, Moore’s indelible imprint on East Bay politics and her unwavering commitment to social justice will remain etched in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.