[09-20-2025] Riverside County, CA – 71-Year-Old Woman Killed by Vehicle in Crosswalk on State Route 74 at Columbia Street in Hemet

A 71-year-old woman was killed while walking in a crosswalk on State Route 74 at Columbia Street in Hemet on Saturday night, September 20, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 11:15 p.m. Debra D., a resident of Hemet, was struck by a Honda traveling eastbound through a red light in the No. 1 lane at an unconfirmed speed.

Debra was thrown onto the roadway and transported to Hemet Global Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead after suffering blunt-force trauma.

The driver fled the scene but was later located at Soboba Casino. The vehicle was seized as evidence, and the 21-year-old driver, William C. of Hemet, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.

CHP continues to investigate the cause of the fatal collision.

Contact Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers In Hemet, CA

Pedestrian accidents involving impaired drivers can result in serious injuries or fatalities, creating legal and financial considerations for families and survivors. Understanding potential legal options may help you take the necessary steps following a collision.

DUI accident victim lawyers in Hemet can help you explore legal avenues after a pedestrian accident. This may include reviewing official reports, assisting with insurance communications, and explaining the process of pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Early legal guidance may help ensure important matters are addressed properly.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form for a free initial consultation.

What To Do After A DUI Pedestrian Accident In Hemet, CA

When a pedestrian is killed in a collision involving a suspected DUI driver, surviving family members and others affected may take certain steps to help protect legal rights and preserve important evidence related to the incident.

1. Contact Authorities And Obtain Medical Or Official Records
   Ensure that official reports and any available medical documentation are obtained. These records can be important for understanding the circumstances of the collision.
2. Document The Scene If Possible
   If family members or witnesses are at or near the scene, safely gathering photographs or notes about the location, vehicles, and conditions may help preserve information.
3. Gather Witness Information
   Collect names and contact details of anyone who witnessed the collision. Their statements may help clarify the circumstances surrounding the accident.
4. Consult DUI Accident Victim Lawyers
   An attorney can explain possible legal options for the family, assist with communications regarding insurance claims, and help preserve time-sensitive evidence. Early guidance may help ensure legal rights are protected and that the case is handled appropriately.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

In 2022, alcohol-related crashes caused around 13,524 deaths across the United States, including 1,479 fatalities in California. Nationwide, the number of DUI-related deaths declined slightly by 0.7 percent compared to 2021. In contrast, California saw a small increase of 1.8 percent in alcohol-related fatalities.

These figures highlight the ongoing risks associated with impaired driving and emphasize the importance of continuing safety programs and public awareness efforts to reduce alcohol-related crashes.