Michael Reitz Injured in Fatal Joshua Tree Accident on Highway 62

Joshua Tree, California (March 14, 2023) – Michael Reitz, 68, of Wisconsin, was seriously hurt in a fatal collision in Joshua Tree Saturday afternoon, the California Highway Patrol said.

The deadly wreck occurred on Highway 62 near Sunview Avenue at about 12:20 p.m. March 11.

Reitz was driving a Ford F-250 eastbound on Highway 62 when he collided with a Nissan Rogue that made a left turn into the roadway from the right shoulder.

The woman driving the Nissan died at the scene of the crash.

Reitz and a passenger in the Ford, a 67-year-old woman, were both taken to the Hi Desert Medical Center with moderate injuries.

A passenger in the Rogue was transported to Desert Regional Medical Center with major injuries. 

Eastbound Highway 62 was shut down for hours following the accident. 

The investigation is ongoing.