Palm Desert hit-and-run: Search underway for driver responsible for pedestrian’s death
A hit-and-run incident claimed the life of a pedestrian on Wednesday night, prompting a police investigation. The victim, an unidentified man, was struck and killed by a car that fled the scene
The incident took place around 10:15 p.m. at the intersection of Country Club Drive and Barrington Drive, near the entrance to the Whitehawk gated community. Witnesses reported seeing a white truck driving away after the collision. Police say no arrests have been made.
"It could be that person maybe was looking at their phone. Do they even know they hit the person? We're just not aware of our surroundings these days? Nobody cares for one another," said nearby resident Kim Schneider. She lamented the prevalent speeding in the residential neighborhoods despite posted speed limits and clear warnings.
"We've got a 25 miles per hour limit. We actually have a little flashing sign down there. It tells you what speed you're going," Schneider said. "Just through the emails and the HOA meetings, it's a constant fight to get people to slow down."
The victim was found in the eastbound lanes of Country Club Drive and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are withholding the victim's identity until loved ones are notified.
The incident occurred in the darkness of the night, making it more challenging for witnesses to come forward. Schneider expressed her hope that someone who saw something would come forward, saying, "It's hard. You know, it's probably going to be unsolved."
Palm Desert's Traffic Collision Reconstruction Team has now taken over the investigation to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.
Law enforcement is urging anyone with information about the incident to contact Deputy Broughton at the Palm Desert Sheriff's Station at 760-836-1600, as police continue to search for the suspect responsible for the hit-and-run.
