40-Year-Old Kurtis Haynes Identified as Victim in Fatal Freeway Pedestrian Crash in Long Beach

LONG BEACH, CA — A tragic accident on a Southern California freeway claimed the life of 40-year-old Kurtis Haynes, who was fatally struck while walking along a freeway transition road late Tuesday night, authorities confirmed.

According to a report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office, emergency personnel responded shortly after the incident was reported and found Haynes deceased at the scene. The crash occurred on a transition road in Long Beach, a high-traffic area that connects multiple major freeways. The specific location has not yet been disclosed, pending further investigation.

Victim Identified as Kurtis Haynes

Officials identified the victim as Kurtis Haynes, a 40-year-old man whose life was cut short in what is being described as a tragic and preventable incident. The circumstances that led to Haynes walking on the freeway remain under investigation.

Authorities have not confirmed whether Haynes was attempting to cross the transition road, walking along the shoulder, or stranded due to an emergency. It is also unclear whether he was struck by more than one vehicle or if the driver who hit him remained at the scene. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is leading the investigation.

Emergency Response and Scene Investigation

Emergency responders arrived on scene to find Haynes unresponsive. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Traffic in the area was temporarily shut down overnight as investigators worked to document the scene and interview any witnesses who may have seen what happened.

Witnesses, if any, are being urged to come forward to help clarify the sequence of events. As of Wednesday morning, the identity of the driver involved and any potential charges or citations had not been publicly released.

Authorities Seek Public Assistance

The CHP is asking for the public’s help as they work to piece together what led to the fatal incident. Anyone who was driving through the area around the time of the crash—particularly between 10:30 p.m. and midnight—is encouraged to contact the agency with any information or dashcam footage that may assist in the investigation.

To provide information, call the California Highway Patrol’s South Los Angeles Office at (310) 516-3355.

Community Mourns Unexpected Loss

Little is known at this time about Kurtis Haynes’s background, but his untimely death has drawn sympathy and sorrow from residents of the Long Beach area. Friends and family are expected to gather for a vigil once more information is released. As word of the tragedy spreads, many in the community are expressing sadness over the loss of a life under such sudden and heartbreaking circumstances.

“No one expects to lose a loved one like this,” said one Long Beach resident. “He was just walking — and now he’s gone.”

Freeway Pedestrian Deaths a Growing Concern

This incident adds to a troubling trend in California and across the country, where pedestrian deaths on or near highways have been on the rise. In many cases, individuals are struck while experiencing vehicle trouble, attempting to cross freeways, or navigating confusing exit ramps—situations that often end in tragedy due to high speeds and low visibility.

Transportation officials continue to urge drivers to remain alert at all times, especially in poorly lit areas or during late-night hours when visibility is significantly reduced.

As the investigation into the death of Kurtis Haynes continues, law enforcement hopes that community assistance will help provide answers—and ultimately, closure—for his loved ones. Further updates will be released by authorities as more details become available.