Susan Finn died in pedestrian accident on Twentynine Palms Highway

Toyota Camry and Honda Accord struck victim near Mountain View Circle, CHP says

March 21, 2026 | Joshua Tree, CA

A devastating pedestrian accident claimed the life of 42-year-old local resident Susan Finn on Twentynine Palms Highway.

Susan Finn, 42, was killed after a Toyota Camry and a Honda Accord struck a pedestrian on Twentynine Palms Highway in Joshua Tree.

What Happened in the Crash?

According to the California Highway Patrol, the incident occurred around 8:50 p.m. when Finn was first struck by a Toyota Camry traveling eastbound near Mountain View Circle. Moments later, a Honda Accord hit her, trapping her underneath the vehicle. Emergency responders extricated Finn, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

• Date and Time: March 21, approximately 8:50 p.m.
• Location: Twentynine Palms Highway near Mountain View Circle, Joshua Tree, CA
• Vehicles Involved: Toyota Camry and Honda Accord
• Victim: Susan Finn, 42, Joshua Tree resident
• Outcome: Fatal injuries, and pronounced dead on-site
• Investigating Agency: California Highway Patrol (CHP)

Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?

Pedestrian fatalities remain a critical issue in California, where road conditions, poor visibility, and inadequate lighting often play roles. The state's Office of Traffic Safety reports nearly 7,500 pedestrian deaths between 2009 and 2018, with California's rate 25% above the national average—making it the leading state for such tragedies.

Nationally, the Governors Highway Safety Association notes a sharp rise in pedestrian deaths, with an estimated 6,590 in 2019 alone—the highest in over three decades. These accidents frequently outpace other traffic fatalities in growth.

Legal Insights on Pedestrian Crashes

In cases such as this involving motor vehicle collisions, thorough investigations are essential to determine contributing factors and support affected families.

“Road conditions, visibility, and lighting are all possible contributing factors considered and examined,” said Candice Bond, managing partner with Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline. “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 collision.”

• Drivers must yield to pedestrians, a fundamental duty under traffic laws.
• Investigations often involve reconstructing the scene to identify liabilities.
• Families may pursue claims for funeral expenses, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.
• Insurance pressures for quick settlements can undervalue cases, and professional guidance ensures fair outcomes.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide a family through this difficult time while protecting their rights. Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”

The family of Susan Finn may be eligible for a wrongful death claim to address these losses.

Newsline's Commitment to Credibility

Newsline, the premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., upholds an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence. Our rigorous editorial standards ensure accurate, timely reporting on incidents like this pedestrian crash in Joshua Tree.

For transparency, we invite feedback via our Corrections Policy, with a 24-hour review guarantee.

Learn more about our Editorial Process and Editorial Policy.

(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.