[03-25-2025] Riverside County, CA – Two People Killed After Fiery Head-On Crash at Dillon and Lamel Roads in Thousand Palms

Two people were fatally injured after a fiery head-on collision between a pickup truck and a sedan in Thousand Palms, Riverside County, on Tuesday afternoon, March 25, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 3:40 p.m. at the intersection of Dillon and Lamel Roads.

A Dodge pickup and a sedan collided head-on at unknown speeds, resulting in both vehicles catching fire.

A good Samaritan, identified as a retired firefighter, attempted to extinguish the flames before emergency crews arrived. Riverside County Fire Department personnel responded within minutes and successfully knocked down the fire.

Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene. Their identities have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

Contact Experienced Car Accident Lawyers in Riverside County Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. At Arash Law, our legal team, led by attorney Arash Khorsandi, Esq., is here to provide the reliable support and representation you need.

Our skilled Riverside County car accident lawyers will carefully review your case, explain your legal rights, and guide you through the process of pursuing a fair settlement. If you need help obtaining a police report or other important documents, we can assist you with that as well.

With over $750 million recovered for accident victims, Arash Law is widely known for its strong advocacy and client-focused approach.

Call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form today to speak with a trusted car accident attorney and begin your path to recovery.

What To Do After A Car Accident In Riverside County

After a crash, it’s normal to feel shaken or unsure of what to do next. Our Riverside County car accident lawyers recommend staying calm and focused to protect both your safety and your legal rights. If you’re able, taking the following steps can make a big difference in your recovery and your case:

1. Prioritize Your Health — One of the most important steps after a collision is to check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone has injuries, call 911 to seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, consult a medical professional, as some injuries may not be apparent right away.
2. Move To A Safe Location — If you can, park your vehicle on the side of the road to avoid further accidents or traffic disruptions. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the situation. Do not leave the scene, or you might be held liable for hit-and-run.
3. Collect Strong Evidence — Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, injuries sustained, and relevant road conditions. You may also request witnesses to provide testimony to the police at the scene.
4. Report The Accident To Your Insurance Company — Provide the facts, like the time, date, and location. However, avoid admitting fault or providing more information than necessary. Details you disclose could be used against you later.
5. Reach Out To Arash Law — Our car accident lawyers in Riverside can guide you through the next steps of filing a personal injury claim. Let’s discuss your case in a free initial consultation by calling us at (888) 488-1391 today.

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Car Accident Statistics

Car accidents continue to take a heavy toll on California roads each year. According to the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), there were 3,847 traffic-related deaths in 2020—a 3.4% increase from the 3,719 fatalities reported in 2019.

Alcohol-related crashes played a significant role, with 1,159 deaths involving drunk driving—up 20% from 966 the year before. These incidents accounted for 30% of all traffic fatalities in the state. Additionally, the number of crash victims who tested positive for legal or illegal drugs rose from 51% in 2019 to 55% in 2020, marking a 7.8% increase and highlighting the growing impact of impaired driving.