Bakersfield, CA – On the evening of Thursday, July 9, 2026, a pedestrian collision resulted in the death of Larry Bernard Tombow, 83, of Bakersfield, according to KBAK.
The Bakersfield Police Department reports that the accident took place around 9:18 PM in the 1100 block of Panorama Drive.
Authorities said the driver involved had apparently been traveling westbound on Panorama Drive when she struck Tombow, who was in the roadway and not in a crosswalk. He was found down in the roadway suffering from severe injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. The Kern County Coroner’s Office formally identified Tombow following his death.
Intoxication was not found to be a factor in the crash. Investigators are continuing to determine whether speed may have been a factor. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Bakersfield Police Department. The investigation remains ongoing.
Bakersfield Pedestrian Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims
California law requires drivers to exercise an extra duty of care toward pedestrians, remaining vigilant and prepared to stop even when pedestrians are outside of marked crosswalks. When a pedestrian collision results in a fatality, investigators with California law enforcement examine factors such as speed, visibility, and driver attentiveness to determine the cause and whether the driver may bear liability.
Regardless of the findings, Tombow’s family may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death claim can provide the family with compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of consortium, and other damages related to the fatal accident.
Bakersfield Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, in the 1100 block of Panorama Drive, contact a California wrongful death lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
