Thomas Diguette died in pedestrian crash on East Palm Canyon Drive

Vehicle struck the Palm Springs resident in the crosswalk at Cherokee Way

April 29, 2026 | Palm Springs, CA

Palm Springs authorities reported a tragic incident where an elderly pedestrian lost his life after being struck by a vehicle. 

The collision took place in the evening, highlighting ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety in busy intersections.

Thomas Diguette, 78, died after being struck by a vehicle in a pedestrian crash at East Palm Canyon Drive and Cherokee Way in Palm Springs, Riverside County.

What Happened in the Crash?

A vehicle traveling eastbound on East Palm Canyon Drive struck a pedestrian in the crosswalk near Cherokee Way around 8 p.m. The victim, 78-year-old local resident Thomas Diguette, sustained severe injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. The driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators, who are actively investigating the circumstances leading to the accident.

Key Details of the Incident

• Date and Time: April 29, shortly after 8 p.m.
• Location: Intersection of East Palm Canyon Drive and Cherokee Way, Palm Springs, CA
• Victim: Thomas Diguette, 78, Palm Springs resident
• Vehicle Involved: Eastbound motor vehicle
• Outcome: Pedestrian fatality, and the driver remained on scene
• Investigation Status: Ongoing by local police

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

Pedestrian deaths have surged in recent years, underscoring the need for heightened awareness. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), fatalities among those on foot have increased at a rate nearly seven times the U.S. population growth over the past decade.

Data reflects broader patterns in motor vehicle versus pedestrian incidents, emphasizing crosswalk vulnerabilities.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Common factors in pedestrian crashes include driver inattention, failure to yield, and poor visibility at dusk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that most such incidents occur at intersections, where right-of-way rules are critical. In this case, preliminary findings suggest the pedestrian was in a marked crosswalk, a zone where vehicles must exercise utmost caution.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts provide valuable perspectives on pedestrian safety and post-accident processes, stressing the importance of thorough investigations in motor vehicle crashes.

“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.

Key takeaways from analyst insights:

• Drivers bear the primary duty to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
• Independent investigations by seasoned attorneys can preserve evidence and protect family rights swiftly.
• Time-sensitive actions are essential to accurately reconstruct circumstances in collision cases.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “Family members may seek damages for loss of income, companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress.”

Additional points:

• Attorneys advocate for fair compensation, countering insurance pressures for low settlements.
• Compassionate guidance helps families navigate legal complexities after tragic losses.

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