Victorville, CA (March 7, 2026) – Authorities have identified 39-year-old Diego Ayala of Adelanto as the pedestrian who died after being struck by a vehicle in Victorville.
Incident Details: According to the Victorville Police Department, the collision occurred around 12:26 a.m. on March 7, 2026, at the intersection of Palmdale Road and U.S. Highway 395. Deputies responded to a report of a vehicle versus pedestrian crash and located Ayala, who had been struck by a Toyota Prius.
Ayala was transported to Loma Linda University Medical Center for treatment.
The driver of the Prius remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
The San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office reported that Ayala died from his injuries on March 13, 2026, six days after the crash.
Investigation: The Victorville Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Because the collision occurred at a major intersection, investigators may evaluate how both the driver and pedestrian approached the roadway and whether right-of-way laws were followed.
Authorities may consider factors such as traffic signals, visibility conditions at the time of the crash, vehicle speed, and driver attentiveness. Investigators may also review physical evidence from the scene, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage to help determine how the collision occurred.
The findings will help clarify whether any traffic violations or contributing factors were involved.
Legal Considerations: Pedestrian collisions often involve questions about right-of-way and whether drivers exercised reasonable care to avoid a crash. Under California law, drivers are required to remain alert and yield when appropriate, particularly at intersections.
If investigators determine that the driver failed to yield, was inattentive, or otherwise acted negligently, Diego Ayala’s surviving family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims may seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and the loss of companionship.
However, liability will depend on the specific facts, including the pedestrian’s location and actions at the time of the collision.
I extend my heartfelt sympathies to the family and loved ones of Diego Ayala. Losing someone in this way is deeply painful, and I hope they can find comfort, support, and answers in the days ahead.
Source: Victor Valley News