Joshua Pierson killed in Kern County pedestrian hit-and-run accident

Police say Pierson collided with a fleeing motorist west of Plymouth Avenue

October 08, 2025 | Bakersfield, CA
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Authorities said a Bakersfield man died after a driver struck him and fled the scene early Wednesday in Oildale. The Kern County Coroner's Office identified him as 36-year-old Joshua Scott Pierson.

What Happened in the Hit-and-Run Crash?

Bakersfield resident Joshua Scott Pierson, 36, was killed after being hit by a black Honda Accord that fled in a hit-and-run crash on Roberts Lane in Oildale, Kern County.

Key details of the incident include:

• Date and Time: Oct. 22, 2025, around 1 a.m.
• Location: Roberts Lane, west of Plymouth Avenue, Oildale, Kern County, California
• Victim: Joshua Scott Pierson, 36-year-old pedestrian from Bakersfield
• Incident Description: Pierson was in the eastbound lanes when an eastbound black Honda Accord hit him. The driver left the area, but officers later found the car. The suspect has not been caught
• Outcome: Pierson died at the scene
• Ongoing Investigation: The California Highway Patrol is handling the case. Anyone with details should call the CHP Bakersfield office at 661-396-6600

Why Do Hit-and-Run Accidents Happen?

Hit-and-run accidents can result from drivers fearing consequences, driving while impaired, lacking insurance or reacting in panic after a collision. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety show these events increasing, especially harming pedestrians and others without vehicles.

Here is a summary of relevant hit-and-run statistics in the United States:

These statistics show the serious nature of hit-and-run incidents and the importance of awareness and prevention efforts.

Expert Insights

Newsline features insights from national legal analysts to provide broader context on incidents like motor vehicle crashes.

“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a pedestrian accident case and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and national legal analyst for Newsline. “In cases such as this, the driver always has to take great care behind the wheel.”

“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal and national legal analyst for Newsline. “We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.”

Key takeaways from these insights:

• Thorough investigations are crucial to establish negligence in hit-and-run cases.
• Drivers must prioritize safety and responsibility behind the wheel to prevent such tragedies.
• Families affected by wrongful deaths should seek legal guidance to protect their rights and pursue justice.

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