Lucerne Valley, California (March 16, 2026) — A husband and wife from Lucerne Valley were killed Monday morning in a collision involving a semi-truck along State Route 18, according to authorities.
The San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office identified the victims as Jeffrey Cymbaluk, 66, and Paula Lowery Cymbaluk, 64. Both died at the scene from injuries sustained in the crash.
The collision occurred at approximately 9:32 a.m. on State Route 18 east of Meridian Road.
Incident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol and reports from the scene, the crash involved a 2002 Mercury Grand Marquis and a Robertson’s Transport semi-truck pulling a tanker trailer.
Authorities said Jeffrey Cymbaluk was driving the Mercury, with Paula Cymbaluk riding as a passenger, when their vehicle became involved in the collision with the semi-truck.
The Mercury sustained catastrophic damage, particularly along the passenger side, and became wedged beneath the front portion of the semi-truck, with the roof crushed downward. The vehicle ultimately came to rest off the roadway in the dirt shoulder and nearby desert brush.
The semi-truck sustained front driver-side damage and remained partially on the roadway, with the attached tanker trailer extending along the shoulder.
A third vehicle, identified as a Jeep, was part of the broader investigation, although authorities indicated it did not make contact with either the Mercury or the semi-truck.
Emergency responders arriving at the scene confirmed that both occupants of the Mercury had sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced deceased at the scene.
The crash prompted significant traffic disruptions along SR-18. Authorities diverted traffic and implemented alternating lane controls while crews worked to investigate the scene and clear the roadway.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol Victorville Area Office is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash.
In collisions involving passenger vehicles and large commercial trucks, investigators typically examine vehicle positioning, speed, right-of-way, and roadway conditions. Determining how the Mercury came into contact with the semi-truck and whether either vehicle crossed into opposing lanes or made an unsafe maneuver will be central to the investigation.
Crash reconstruction teams will likely analyze impact points, debris patterns, and vehicle damage, including how the Mercury became lodged beneath the semi-truck. Investigators may also review any available witness statements and traffic conditions at the time of the crash.
Because a third vehicle was involved in the broader circumstances, investigators may evaluate whether its presence or actions contributed in any way to the sequence of events, even without direct contact.
At this time, authorities have not announced any citations or charges. The investigation remains ongoing.
Legal Considerations: Fatal crashes involving semi-trucks often raise complex legal questions due to the significant size and weight differences between commercial vehicles and passenger cars.
These cases frequently involve detailed analysis of driver conduct, roadway positioning, and adherence to traffic laws, as well as potential review of commercial carrier safety practices.
Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the Cymbaluk family may have the right to pursue wrongful death claims to address the financial and emotional losses resulting from the tragedy.
Such collisions underscore the significant dangers involved when passenger cars and heavy trucks collide, especially on fast-moving rural highways.
I offer my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Jeffrey and Paula Cymbaluk during this challenging time.
Sources: VVNG; Victor Valley Daily Press