Bakersfield, CA – Joseph Adam Cruz Jr., 19, of Bakersfield, has been identified by the Kern County Coroner as the pedestrian who was fatally struck in the 4200 block of South H Street in the early hours of Sunday, January 11, 2026, according to KGET.
Bakersfield Police Department officers were dispatched to the area around 1:51 AM after receiving a report of a vehicle versus pedestrian collision. Upon arrival, officers determined that a gray Nissan sedan traveling northbound on South H Street struck Cruz while he was in the No. 2 lane of traffic.
Emergency medical personnel responded to the scene and confirmed that the pedestrian had sustained fatal injuries. The driver of the Nissan remained at the location and cooperated with investigators.
Authorities stated that speed and driver impairment are not believed to have been factors in the crash. As part of standard investigative procedure, officers documented the scene, collected statements, and examined roadway conditions.
The collision remains under investigation, and no additional details have been released.
Following the incident, a GoFundMe fundraiser was created to assist with funeral expenses. The fundraiser describes Cruz as the oldest of five children and notes that he was known for making others laugh and smile.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, which includes being vigilant for those travelling by foot and, if a collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
Should the at-fault driver evade authorities, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
