A devastating incident occurred early Thursday morning, May 8, 2025, when a pedestrian was struck and killed on the northbound 215 Freeway near Iowa Avenue in Grand Terrace, California.
The collision, reported just before 5 a.m., led to significant traffic disruptions and prompted an investigation by the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Today we’re going over a detailed overview of the incident, its impact, and the broader context of freeway safety in the region.
Details of the Incident
According to the California Highway Patrol, the pedestrian was running across the northbound lanes of the 215 Freeway when they were struck by a vehicle.
The collision occurred near Iowa Avenue in Grand Terrace, a small city in San Bernardino County.
Emergency responders arrived promptly but pronounced the pedestrian deceased at the scene.
The identity of the victim has not been released, pending notification of next of kin.
The CHP reported that the crash led to the closure of the carpool lane and two left lanes, with traffic restrictions expected to last through at least 8 a.m. on May 8, 2025.
Caltrans shared a photo of the scene, highlighting the significant congestion caused by the incident.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the type of vehicle involved or whether the driver remained at the scene, as the investigation is ongoing.
“The carpool lane and two left lanes were expected to be closed through at least 8 a.m. Thursday on the northbound 215 Freeway near Iowa Avenue in Grand Terrace after someone running across the freeway was struck and killed just before 5 a.m.,” according to CHP.
Traffic Impact and Response
The closure of multiple lanes on the 215 Freeway caused substantial delays for morning commuters in the Inland Empire.
The 215 Freeway is a critical artery connecting San Bernardino, Riverside, and surrounding areas, making such disruptions particularly impactful.
Drivers were advised to seek alternate routes, such as the 10 Freeway or surface streets, to avoid the congestion.
Caltrans and CHP worked to manage the scene and restore normal traffic flow as quickly as possible.
By 8 a.m., some lanes were reopened, but residual delays persisted.
The incident underscores the challenges of managing traffic flow during emergency responses on major freeways.
Context: Pedestrian Incidents on the 215 Freeway
This tragic event is not an isolated occurrence on the 215 Freeway, which has seen multiple pedestrian-related fatalities in recent years.
For example:
- July 2021: A 29-year-old Victorville resident, Liliana Gonzalez, was killed after being struck by multiple vehicles on the northbound 215 Freeway near Iowa Avenue. The pedestrian was walking in the lanes when the collision occurred.
- January 2022: A pedestrian was struck and killed by a semitrailer near 5th Street in San Bernardino, leading to a full closure of northbound lanes.
- March 2019: A naked man running across the southbound 215 Freeway at Auto Center Drive in San Bernardino was struck and killed, temporarily blocking all lanes.
These incidents highlight a recurring issue of pedestrians accessing freeway lanes, often with fatal consequences.
Reasons for such behavior vary, including mental health crises, intoxication, or attempts to cross highways unsafely.
The CHP continues to investigate why the pedestrian in the May 2025 incident was on the freeway.
Freeway Safety Challenges in San Bernardino County
The 215 Freeway, stretching through urban and suburban areas of the Inland Empire, poses unique safety challenges.
Unlike rural highways, this freeway runs through densely populated regions, increasing the likelihood of pedestrians attempting to cross or access the roadway.
Factors contributing to pedestrian fatalities on freeways include:
- Lack of Safe Crossings: Many sections of the 215 Freeway lack pedestrian overpasses or underpasses, forcing individuals to cross lanes directly.
- High Speeds: Vehicles on the 215 Freeway often travel at high speeds, reducing reaction times for drivers encountering unexpected obstacles.
- Nighttime Visibility: Many pedestrian incidents, including this one, occur in low-light conditions, making it harder for drivers to spot individuals on the road.
- Behavioral Factors: Mental health issues, substance use, or disorientation may lead individuals to enter freeway lanes unsafely.
Local authorities and Caltrans have implemented measures to enhance freeway safety, such as improved signage, lighting, and barriers.
However, preventing pedestrian access to freeways remains a complex challenge.
Community Response and Calls for Action
The Grand Terrace community, known for its tight-knit atmosphere, has been shaken by this latest tragedy.
Social media posts on X reflect public concern and frustration over recurring freeway fatalities in the region.
One user noted, “Another life lost on the 215.
When will we see real solutions to keep pedestrians off freeways?”
Advocacy groups and residents have called for increased investment in pedestrian infrastructure, such as additional overpasses, fencing to deter freeway access, and public awareness campaigns.
Others emphasize the need for broader mental health and social services to address underlying causes of such incidents.
What Drivers and Pedestrians Can Do
To prevent similar tragedies, both drivers and pedestrians can take proactive steps:
For Drivers:
- Stay Alert: Always be prepared for unexpected obstacles, especially in low-visibility conditions.
- Reduce Speed: Adhere to speed limits and slow down in areas with known pedestrian activity.
- Report Hazards: If you see a pedestrian on or near the freeway, call 911 immediately to alert authorities.
For Pedestrians:
- Avoid Freeways: Never attempt to cross or walk along freeways, which are designed exclusively for vehicular traffic.
- Use Designated Crossings: Stick to pedestrian bridges, underpasses, or marked crosswalks.
- Stay Visible: If near roadways at night, wear reflective clothing or carry a light to enhance visibility.
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Ongoing Investigation and How to Help
The CHP is actively investigating the May 8, 2025, incident and is seeking witnesses or additional information.
Anyone with details about the crash is encouraged to contact the CHP San Bernardino Office at (909) 383-4247.
For those affected by this tragedy, community resources are available, including grief counseling and support services through local organizations in Grand Terrace and San Bernardino County.
If a fundraiser is established for the victim’s family, updates will be shared as they become available.
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