Nissan Altima struck the pedestrian on eastbound Highway 18
January 18, 2026 | Apple Valley, CA
A 37-year-old man died in a pedestrian collision on the eastbound side of Highway 18 near Apple Valley Road in Apple Valley, California.
The incident occurred at approximately 10:54 p.m., as reported by local authorities.
Hughie J. Sheppard, 37, died when a 2015 Nissan Altima struck him as a pedestrian on eastbound Highway 18 near Apple Valley Road in Apple Valley.
What Happened in the Crash?
Emergency services responded to the scene where a 2015 Nissan Altima struck Hughie J. Sheppard. Responders pronounced him deceased at the location.
Key details include:
- Victim: Hughie J. Sheppard, age 37
- Location: Eastbound Highway 18 near Apple Valley Road, Apple Valley, CA
- Date and Time: Jan. 18 at 10:54 p.m.
- Vehicle Involved: 2015 Nissan Altima, driven by a 21-year-old from Victorville
- Driver Status: Remained at the scene, uninjured
- Agency: San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department
Authorities are seeking witnesses and urge anyone with information to contact them at 760-240-7400 or submit an anonymous tip at 1-800-782-7463.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrians face significant risks on roadways, often due to driver errors or environmental factors. In California, these incidents contribute to a high number of fatalities.
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, the state saw 1,069 pedestrian deaths in 2023, accounting for about 25% of all traffic fatalities and the highest in the U.S. for five years running.
The Governors Highway Safety Association links rising pedestrian deaths to speeding, impaired driving, distractions, and infrastructure that favors vehicles over foot traffic.
Factor |
Contribution to Pedestrian Fatalities |
Source |
|---|
Speeding |
Increases collision severity |
GHSA |
Distracted Driving |
Reduces reaction time |
California Office of Traffic Safety |
Impaired Driving |
Impairs judgment |
CDC |
Poor Infrastructure |
Limits safe crossing areas |
Federal Highway Administration |
Road conditions, visibility, and lighting play crucial roles in such crashes, often requiring detailed analysis to determine fault.
Legal Insights on Pedestrian Crashes
National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in pedestrian incidents to establish liability.
“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a pedestrian accident case and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, a managing partner with Bond Legal. “Road conditions, visibility, and lighting are all possible contributing factors considered and examined. An accident reconstruction team is sometimes needed to help piece together what happened. All of these resources are necessary for helping clients receive monetary compensation for damages or a loss following a pedestrian accident,” said Bond, a national legal analyst with Newsline.
Key takeaways:
- Drivers must yield to pedestrians in nearly all scenarios.
- Families may pursue claims for lost income, companionship, emotional distress, and funeral costs.
- Professional guidance helps navigate insurance pressures for fair settlements.
“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “Family members of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of income and companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident.”
In cases such as this, attorneys advocate to protect rights and ensure respectful treatment during recovery or loss.
Newsline, a premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., upholds rigorous editorial standards with an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence. For transparency, view our Corrections Policy, which guarantees a 24-hour review of any concerns.
(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)
Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.
Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one needs help, she offers free consultations.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).