Victorville, California (February 7, 2026) — A 92-year-old Victorville man was killed, and a woman was seriously injured Saturday evening after both were struck by an SUV while walking along El Evado Road, according to authorities.
The San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office identified the deceased as Roman Veloza Panitan Sr., 92, of Victorville. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The collision occurred around 7:15–7:17 p.m. on El Evado Road, just north of Dos Palmas Road, in an unincorporated area outside Victorville.
Incident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol, Panitan and a female companion were walking along the right shoulder of southbound El Evado Road when they were struck by a southbound gold 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Emergency personnel arrived to find both pedestrians down in the roadway. Panitan sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The woman walking with him was transported to a hospital with significant injuries. Her identity and current condition have not been released.
The SUV came to rest along the southbound shoulder with visible front passenger-side damage, including a dented fender and bumper impact. A walker with a small basket attachment was reportedly found in the roadway near the crash site.
Authorities said the driver, described as an adult male, remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. DUI was not initially suspected.
El Evado Road was closed in both directions between Dos Palmas Road and Cholame Road for several hours while investigators processed the scene.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol Victorville Station is leading the investigation. Officials have not yet determined the exact cause of the collision.
In roadway pedestrian crashes that occur along shoulders rather than at marked crosswalks, investigators typically examine lighting conditions, pedestrian visibility, vehicle speed, and whether the driver maintained a proper lookout. They will likely evaluate roadway illumination, reflectivity, and whether the pedestrians were visible from a reasonable stopping distance.
Crash reconstruction may include an analysis of skid marks, impact angles, vehicle damage patterns, and any available onboard vehicle data. Investigators may also review whether roadway design or shoulder width contributed to the circumstances.
At this time, authorities have not announced any citations or charges. The collision remains under active investigation.
Legal Considerations: Pedestrian crashes on rural or semi-rural roadways can raise complex liability issues. Even when pedestrians are walking along a shoulder, drivers have a duty to exercise reasonable care and maintain control of their vehicle under existing conditions. Determining fault often hinges on visibility, reaction time, and whether the driver acted prudently.
Pending the outcome of the investigation, the Panitan family may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim to address funeral expenses and the profound emotional and financial loss resulting from such a tragedy. The injured pedestrian may also file a personal injury claim depending on the final findings of the investigation.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Roman Veloza Panitan Sr., and I hope for healing and recovery for the injured woman.
Sources: Victor Valley Daily Press; VVNG.com