The collision occurred at approximately 6:37 a.m. on February 21, 2026, along eastbound Interstate 10 just west of Bob Hope Drive.
Cathedral City, CA – A 65-year-old man was killed, and five others were hospitalized following a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 10 in Cathedral City early Saturday morning, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The collision occurred at approximately 6:37 a.m. on February 21, 2026, along eastbound Interstate 10 just west of Bob Hope Drive.
Investigators said a Lexus was traveling eastbound in the number one lane and had been reported as driving recklessly. At the same time, a Toyota carrying five passengers was heading in the same direction in the number three lane. Authorities reported that the Lexus veered to the right and collided with the Toyota.
Officials noted that a standing body of water from earlier rainfall had accumulated just south of the eastbound lanes at the crash site. After the impact, the Lexus came to rest upright within the water. The Toyota overturned onto its roof and became submerged.
Four passengers inside the Toyota were able to escape from the overturned vehicle. The driver of the Lexus self-extricated. However, the driver of the Toyota remained trapped underwater and had to be extricated by emergency personnel. He was unresponsive at the scene and transported to Desert Regional Medical Center, where he later died. The Riverside County Coroner’s Office identified him as Jose Crespo Guevara, 65, of Bell.
The Lexus driver was also transported to a hospital for evaluation and was later arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Emergency responders worked to remove the submerged vehicle and assist victims at the scene. The crash led to significant disruption along the eastbound lanes of Interstate 10 while crews conducted rescue and recovery operations.
The investigation into the fatal Cathedral City crash is ongoing.
California Crash Statistics
According to the California Highway Patrol, California records more than 190,000 injury-related traffic crashes annually. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that thousands of people lose their lives each year in traffic collisions across the state, with impaired driving remaining a leading contributing factor.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, speaking with a skilled car accident attorney can help you understand your legal rights during this difficult time. An attorney can guide your family through the claims process, protect your interests, and pursue compensation for your loss. Reach out today for compassionate legal support and a free case evaluation.