According to the Bakersfield Police Department, the incident happened on March 30, 2026, before 10 p.m. at Chester and California Avenues
Bakersfield, CA – A pedestrian was injured in a crash that happened Monday night at an intersection in Bakersfield.
According to the Bakersfield Police Department, the incident happened on March 30, 2026, before 10 p.m. at Chester and California Avenues.
Investigators said that the driver of the vehicle was traveling northbound on Chester Avenue and had a green light as it entered the intersection at California Avenue when a pedestrian in the crosswalk, who walked against a red light, was struck by the vehicle.
The pedestrian was taken to a hospital and is expected to survive. A dog was also struck by the vehicle and died.
Alcohol and drugs were not suspected to be a factor in the crash.
The driver behind the wheel stayed at the scene and cooperated with the police.
The accident remains under investigation.
According to official and authority-based reports from the Bakersfield Police Department and city data, pedestrian accidents remain a significant safety issue in Bakersfield. A City of Bakersfield report drawing on police data recorded 55 pedestrian fatalities between 2014 and 2017, forming the majority of 64 total pedestrian and bicyclist deaths in that period. In addition, police investigations have documented dozens of fatal and injury collisions involving pedestrians, including at least 49 such incidents over a recent three-year span. More recent police-reported crashes show the continued severity of the problem, with multiple fatalities in 2024–2025 alone, often occurring at night or outside marked crosswalks and sometimes involving hit-and-run drivers. Authorities consistently note that factors such as roadway design, pedestrian positioning, and visibility contribute to these incidents, underscoring ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety in the city.
In the wake of a tragic loss, families are urged to consult with a legal professional to explore their rights and determine the best path forward.