(San Dimas, CA) An Orange (57) Freeway crash near State Route 71 resulted in the death of Thomas Percy, 68, in San Dimas.
On Saturday, August 9, at around 10 p.m., the 57 Freeway crash occurred. According to the California Highway Patrol, it happened on the southbound freeway near State Route 71.
Prior to the 57 Freeway crash, Sheriff’s deputies asked the public’s help on Monday, August 11 in locating Percy. He was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and cardiovascular problems and had been labeled as missing. Percy had been described as a Black, 6 feet 1 inch man wearing a white shirt and gray sweatpants, weighing in at 180 pounds.
When CHP officers investigated the freeway crash, they learned a pedestrian walked along the 57 Freeway in the southbound lanes. At the time, he was wearing a white shirt and had been walking slowly, matching Thomas Percy’s description. Officers speculate he exited from a Honda sedan earlier. At some point, a vehicle struck Percy at a center divider. By the time first responders arrived at the 57 Freeway crash site, they pronounced Thomas Percy dead. All southbound traffic lanes re-opened at 2:08 a.m.
Legal Opinion on the 57 Freeway Crash
The 57 Freeway crash that killed Thomas Percy involves legal issues related to pedestrian safety on highways. Under California Vehicle Code 21956, pedestrians are prohibited from walking along a roadway when an adjacent sidewalk is available except in emergencies or authorized situations. Walking in the southbound lanes of the 57 Freeway, especially at night, created a dangerous condition both for Percy and approaching drivers. Under VEH 22350, motorists must operate their vehicles at a safe speed and be alert to hazards, even unexpected ones.
CHP’s report suggests Percy may have exited from a Honda sedan before walking along the freeway. Investigators will aim to determine why he left the vehicle and whether mechanical issues or impairment contributed to the accident. They will also review whether the driver who struck Percy could have reasonably avoided the collision. Investigators will look into the lighting, traffic speed, and Percy’s position near the center divider. Nighttime visibility and freeway traffic speeds often make it difficult for drivers to react in time, which could weigh against finding driver negligence.
From a civil standpoint, Percy’s family could pursue a wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60, but success would depend on proving the driver or another party acted negligently. If Percy exited the Honda due to unsafe driving or abandonment by its driver, that person could share liability. California’s comparative negligence system would allow recovery, even if Percy bore some responsibility. Evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, and the Honda’s location after the incident will be critical.
What the Family Can Do
Percy’s family should immediately consult a wrongful death attorney to investigate all possible contributing factors. The attorney can obtain CHP’s collision report, autopsy findings, and any toxicology results to understand the full context. Even if the freeway driver was not at fault, there may be liability elsewhere. Acting quickly will ensure the preservation of important evidence, such as dashcam or traffic video. Doing so allows the family to explore options for accountability and financial recovery within California’s two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death cases.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is a difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
