Driver fled scene after striking man with Silverado pickup in Palm Springs
January 18, 2026 | Palm Springs, CA
Palm Springs authorities are investigating a tragic hit-and-run that claimed the life of a local man early Sunday morning.
Ricardo Marano, 56, died after a Chevrolet Silverado struck him near 1011 East Vista Chino in Palm Springs and fled the scene.
- Victim: Ricardo Marano, 56
- Location: Near 1011 E. Vista Chino, Palm Springs, CA
- Date and Time: Jan. 18, approximately 3:30 a.m.
- Vehicle Involved: 2025 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck
- Outcome: Marano was pronounced dead at the scene
- Investigation Update: Vehicle seized Tuesday in Thousand Palms via search warrant, and no arrests made yet
Witnesses reported the pickup striking Marano before fleeing. The Riverside County Sheriff's Office urges anyone with information to call the Traffic Division at 760-323-8125.
What Happened in the Crash?
The incident unfolded when the Silverado struck Marano on a dimly lit stretch of road. Emergency responders arrived quickly but could not save him. Detectives later tracked the vehicle to Thousand Palms, where it was impounded. The driver remains at large, and the investigation continues to uncover details like speed and possible impairment.
Why Do Hit-and-Run Accidents Happen in California?
Hit-and-run crashes pose a significant danger on California roads, often leaving families without closure. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), these incidents account for a disproportionate share of fatalities in the state.
Statistic |
California (2017-2021) |
National Average |
|---|
Total Fatal Crashes |
18,137 |
Not Available |
Hit-and-Run Fatal Crashes |
1,901 (10.48%) |
6.33% |
Ranking |
Highest in the U.S. |
Not Available |
Factors contributing to these escapes include intoxication, unlicensed driving, or fear of legal consequences. Poor visibility and road conditions can exacerbate risks, prompting drivers to flee rather than assist.
Legal Insights
National legal analysts emphasize the need for thorough investigations in hit-and-run cases to support affected families.
“In cases such as this, it is imperative to have an independent investigation conducted by a seasoned attorney to protect the rights of a victim’s family,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal and a national analyst with Newsline. “Having the proper resources is crucial to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence. Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all potential contributing factors that are considered and must be thoroughly examined. These procedures are necessary for helping someone who has lost a loved one at the hands of a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve.”
Key takeaways from such analyses include:
- Independent reviews can identify overlooked evidence like surveillance footage or witness statements.
- Families may pursue claims for loss of companionship, emotional distress, and financial support.
- Prompt legal involvement ensures updates from official inquiries and maximizes recovery options.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, added:
“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 best interests are taken care of. Relatives of wrongful death victims are entitled to seek damages for the loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident.”
Wrongful Death Claims: What Families Should Know
Relatives of those lost in motor vehicle incidents, including hit-and-runs, often qualify for wrongful death actions. These can cover funeral costs, lost income, and intangible losses like grief. Newsline recommends consulting professionals early to navigate complex statutes and gather evidence.
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(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)
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If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a hit-and-run, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free, no-obligation consultation.
(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).