(Lake Elsinore, CA) A man was killed Sunday night, February 22, after being struck by an SUV driven by an allegedly intoxicated motorist in a South Grand Avenue crash.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision occurred shortly before 10 p.m. on South Grand Avenue. Investigators said Benjamin Douglass, 48, of Lake Elsinore was walking within the southbound traffic lane of Grand and directly in the path of vehicles for reasons that remain under investigation.
CHP Officer Brian Seel said a 51-year-old Murrieta resident drove a Toyota Rav4 southbound at approximately 45 mph when he encountered Douglass in the roadway. The driver was reportedly unable to swerve or stop before striking him. After the impact, the motorist stopped immediately and remained at the scene until law enforcement arrived.
Riverside County Fire Department paramedics reached the location about 10 minutes later and pronounced Douglass dead at the scene. Officers conducted a sobriety evaluation and determined the driver had been operating the vehicle while intoxicated, according to the CHP. He was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor driving under the influence.
Authorities said the driver had no visible injuries but was transported to Inland Valley Medical Center in Wildomar for medical attention and was reported in stable condition. His identity was not released pending formal booking. The investigation into the collision remained ongoing as officers continued reviewing evidence.
Overview on the South Grand Avenue Crash
When a fatal pedestrian collision involves allegations of impaired driving, investigators review traffic safety laws to understand what factors may have contributed, without assigning fault prematurely. These reviews often focus on driver impairment, pedestrian positioning, and roadway speed.
Because CHP reported the driver was intoxicated, authorities will examine the Driving Under the Influence Law. This law prohibits operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Investigators typically rely on field sobriety tests and chemical analysis to determine whether impairment affected reaction time or judgment.
Since officials said the pedestrian was walking within a traffic lane, investigators may also consider the Pedestrian Responsibilities Outside Crosswalks Law. This law requires pedestrians outside marked crosswalks to yield to vehicles that pose an immediate hazard. Officers often evaluate visibility and lighting when reviewing such incidents.
Authorities may further review the Basic Speed Law if speed becomes relevant. This law requires drivers to operate at speeds reasonable for traffic and roadway conditions. These combined statutes help guide CHP’s evaluation of the South Grand Avenue crash as the case proceeds.
What the Family Can Do
If you are related to Benjamin Douglass or are supporting his loved ones, staying in contact with investigators can help you receive updates and request official CHP and coroner reports when they become available.
You may also consider speaking with a qualified legal professional to better understand your options following a fatal DUI collision. Emotional support from family members, friends, or grief counseling services can be especially important during a sudden and painful loss.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
