Nicholas Howell killed in Beach Boulevard motorcycle-pedestrian crash

Huntington Beach Police say Howell was struck while crossing Thursday evening

October 09, 2025 | Huntington Beach, CA
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What Happened in the Huntington Beach Pedestrian Crash?

Nicholas Howell, 46, of Huntington Beach, died after being struck by a southbound motorcycle while crossing Beach Boulevard near Ellis Avenue in Huntington Beach around 8:27 p.m.

A motorcycle struck and killed a pedestrian in Huntington Beach on Thursday night, authorities said. The crash also claimed the life of the motorcyclist.

The pedestrian was identified as Nicholas Howell, a 46-year-old Huntington Beach resident.

The accident took place about 8:27 p.m. near Beach Boulevard and Ellis Avenue. Initial reports indicate a Harley-Davidson motorcycle headed south on Beach Boulevard collided with the pedestrian as he crossed the road. Both were declared dead at the site.

The Huntington Beach Police Department's Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team continues to probe the incident. Additional information remains unavailable.

Key Details of the Incident

• Date: Oct. 9, 2025
• Time: Approximately 8:27 p.m.
• Location: Near Beach Boulevard and Ellis Avenue, Huntington Beach, Calif.
• Victims: Nicholas Howell, 46 years old and an unidentified motorcyclist
• Outcome: Both pronounced dead at the scene
• Investigating Agency: Huntington Beach Police Department's Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team

Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Happen?

Such incidents frequently result from driver recklessness, poor road design favoring vehicles, and insufficient infrastructure. Factors often include dim lighting, distracted driving, excessive speed, and substance impairment.

The Governors Highway Safety Association reports pedestrian fatalities increased approximately 75 percent from 2009 to 2024, far outpacing the rise in other traffic deaths, signaling a pressing road safety issue.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

Here are essential statistics on pedestrian safety from trusted sources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA):

These data highlight the critical demand for enhanced measures like improved illumination and designs prioritizing pedestrians.

Expert Insights

In situations involving deadly pedestrian collisions, guidance from national legal analysts offers perspective on legal options and protections.

“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal.

Bond, a national legal analyst for Newsline, stressed the value of an independent review: “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must be thoroughly examined. These procedures are necessary for helping those who have lost a loved one receive the justice that they deserve.”

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.

Formica, a national legal analyst for Newsline, noted potential entitlements: “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.”

Key Takeaways from Analysts

• Pedestrians generally hold the right of way at crossings and intersections
• Thorough independent investigations help identify elements like roadway flaws or illumination issues
• Wrongful death claims can cover assorted damages for affected families
• Insurers may urge hasty, low-value settlements, but expert representation promotes equity

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