Police responded August 28 to Mill Creek Apartments on Dixon Landing Road after receiving reports that a blue SUV had struck a pedestrian and fled the scene, according to a statement of facts filed in Santa Clara County Superior Court.
Investigators later concluded the incident was an intentional act and began investigating it as a murder.
The victim, identified by friends and community members as 35-year-old Anjana Hari, died at the scene. The criminal complaint filed by the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office charges Anila Baby, 32, with one count of murder.
According to court documents, witnesses told investigators the Hari approached the vehicle shortly before the collision.
One witness said she "appeared to be smiling and seemed to be friendly with the driver." Another witness reported the victim and driver were "good friends."
Investigators said a witness observed the vehicle stopped in the apartment complex parking lot as the Hari walked toward it. The witness told police that when Hari moved in front of the vehicle, "the vehicle suddenly accelerated" and struck her.
Court records state the vehicle then continued forward, hitting three parked cars before leaving the complex.
Prosecutors also allege the crime involved great violence and was carried out with planning and sophistication.
According to investigators, the suspect vehicle was later located at a Walgreens less than a mile from the apartment complex.
Police found Baby inside a damaged blue Toyota Highlander. Court documents state she appeared "incoherent" and had "visible injuries and blood on her arms and legs."
Witness accounts and physical evidence led investigators to conclude the collision was intentional. A traffic officer who reviewed the scene reported finding no tire marks indicating an attempt to brake before impact.
In the statement of facts supporting the charge, investigators wrote that they believe Baby "intentionally" struck the victim with her vehicle, killing her before fleeing the scene.
As the investigation continues, neighbors told ABC7 off camera that the incident has been difficult to process.
Friends of Hari have launched a GoFundMe campaign to support her husband following her death.
Police activity remained visible at the apartment complex nearly a week later, and Milpitas police have said the investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the Milpitas Police Department. Tips may also be submitted anonymously.