: Wrong-direction driver struck pedestrian walking on Ninth Street
February 26, 2026 | Los Angeles, CA
A suspected impaired driver struck and killed a pedestrian in downtown Los Angeles, highlighting ongoing road safety concerns in urban areas.
Orlando Larios, 22, was arrested after allegedly driving under the influence and striking a pedestrian at Ninth Street and Towne Avenue in Los Angeles.
What Happened in the Crash?
Authorities reported that the incident occurred around 2:10 a.m. at the intersection of Ninth Street and Towne Avenue.
Key details include:
- Driver: 22-year-old Orlando Larios operating a red Nissan Kicks.
- Direction: Vehicle traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of Ninth Street.
- Victim: Unidentified pedestrian walking southbound, pronounced dead at the scene.
- Arrest: Larios was taken into custody on felony DUI charges after field sobriety tests confirmed alcohol impairment.
- Investigation: Los Angeles Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances.
The collision underscores the dangers of impaired driving in high-traffic zones.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian fatalities remain a pressing issue nationwide, often linked to driver negligence. Factors contributing to such tragedies include:
- Alcohol and drug impairment affect the driver's judgment.
- Wrong-way driving in busy intersections.
- Failure to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian deaths rose to 6,721 in 2020, a 4.8% increase from 6,412 in 2019. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that non-alcohol drugs contribute to about 18% of motor vehicle driver fatalities.
Statistic |
Value |
Source |
Year |
|---|
Pedestrian Deaths |
6,721 |
GHSA |
2020 |
Increase from Prior Year |
4.8% |
GHSA |
2019-2020 |
Drug-Related Driver Deaths (Non-Alcohol) |
18% |
CDC |
Recent |
Total U.S. Pedestrian Fatalities Trend |
Rising |
Federal Highway Administration |
Ongoing |
This table illustrates the escalating risks on American roadways.
Legal Insights
National legal analyst shared perspectives on handling impaired driving incidents.
“In cases such as this, separate from any criminal charges, a victim's family may pursue compensation via a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal.
Key takeaways from analyst discussions:
- Attorneys can support families through compassionate guidance during grief.
- Legal actions help hold reckless drivers accountable.
- Civil claims often cover medical costs, funeral expenses, and emotional distress.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, explained potential claims.
“A wrongful death occurs when negligence or wrongdoing leads to a fatality. In vehicle crashes involving DUI, speeding, or distraction, families typically have grounds for civil suits against the responsible driver,” said Formica.
These insights emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in pursuing justice.
Broader Implications for Road Safety
Impaired driving poses severe threats to vulnerable road users like pedestrians. Newsline, the premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., maintains an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence.
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Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, is experienced in pedestrian accidents involving serious injuries. She is available for a free consultation if you or a family member needs assistance.
(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).