Suspect arrested in Desert Hot Springs hit-and-run that left pedestrian in critical condition

Update 7/23/26

The suspect in the crash was arrested before being able to leave the state, police announced.

Police said through the use of Flock Safety Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) cameras, investigators were able to quickly identify the suspect vehicle, obtain its license plate, and develop critical investigative leads.

As the investigation continued, detectives learned the suspect had purchased bus and train tickets in an apparent attempt to leave the area and evade arrest.

The suspect, a 53-year-old Desert Hot Springs man, was arrested Friday at 5 p.m. in Palm Springs, just hours before he was set to leave the state.

He was booked into Riverside County Jail, where he is being held on $500,000 bail. He faces a charge of Felony Hit-and-Run Resulting in Serious Injury or Death.

Police said the pedestrian struck by the vehicle remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition.

Original Report 7/21/26

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) — A pedestrian was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries after a hit-and-run crash Tuesday night in Desert Hot Springs, police confirmed.

The crash was reported just after 10 p.m. at Palm Drive and Flora Avenue.

Authorities have now confirmed the driver fled the scene following the crash. Investigators initially spoke with an individual Tuesday night who was believed to be the driver, but later determined that person was not involved.

At this time, the driver has not been identified. Police said investigators are actively working to identify and locate the person responsible.

The pedestrian was taken to the hospital with serious injuries. No additional information about the victim's condition has been released.

The investigation remains ongoing. Stay with News Channel 3 for updates as more information becomes available.