(Huntington Beach, CA) Two men were killed Thursday night in a Beach Boulevard collision that involved a pedestrian and a motorcycle, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.
Officers responded around 8:27 p.m. on October 9 to reports of a crash near Beach Boulevard and Ellis Avenue. When they arrived, they found a motorcyclist, a 45-year-old Los Angeles man, and the pedestrian, a 46-year-old Huntington Beach resident. Both were unconscious in the roadway, said city spokesperson Corbin Carson.
Preliminary findings indicate the Harley-Davidson motorcycle rode south on Beach Boulevard when it struck the pedestrian. The victim crossed outside of a marked crosswalk at the time of the collision. Paramedics from the Huntington Beach Fire Department pronounced both victims dead at the scene.
It is not yet known whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash. The Huntington Beach Police Department’s Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team continues to examine the cause and urges anyone with information to contact Traffic Investigator V. Rattanchandani at 714-536-5231.
Perspective on the Beach Boulevard Collision
Fatal collisions involving both a pedestrian and a motorcyclist often require a detailed investigation. Authorities will consider if speed, visibility, and roadway use contributed to the tragedy. In this Beach Boulevard collision, investigators will carefully evaluate where the pedestrian crossed, the motorcycle’s speed, and lighting conditions at the time of impact.
Because a pedestrian was struck, California Vehicle Code 21954 is especially relevant. It states that pedestrians crossing outside of a crosswalk must yield the right-of-way to vehicles. While pedestrians have a responsibility to be vigilant, drivers also have a duty to exercise due care. Police will assess whether either party could have taken actions to prevent the crash.
If speed was a factor, the Basic Speed Law could apply. It requires drivers and riders to maintain speeds that are safe for existing conditions such as traffic, lighting, and visibility. On major corridors like Beach Boulevard, even moderate speeding can leave little time for drivers or riders to react to unexpected movements.
Authorities will continue to review these laws and available evidence to determine what caused the Beach Boulevard collision and whether further safety improvements could help prevent future fatalities in the area.
Guidance for the Families
If you lost a loved one in this tragic crash, you have every right to seek clarity and support. You can request a copy of the police report from the Huntington Beach Police Department once the investigation concludes.
It may also help to speak with a wrongful death attorney experienced in pedestrian and motorcycle cases to understand your options. Additionally, the Orange County Victim Assistance Program can connect families with counseling and financial support as they navigate the difficult weeks ahead.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
