LONG BEACH, Calif. — Authorities have identified the pedestrian killed in a tragic crash early Friday morning in Long Beach as 69-year-old Eduardo Jones, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. The fatal incident occurred around 6:25 a.m. near the intersection of Hayes Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway, a stretch known for heavy morning traffic. Officials have not yet released details regarding Jones’s place of residence.
Emergency responders from the Long Beach Police Department and Long Beach Fire Department arrived at the scene within minutes of the report. Officers performed life-saving measures until paramedics took over, but despite their combined efforts, Jones was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities said he was crossing the highway when a 2023 Ford F-150, driven by a 40-year-old Wilmington man, struck him while traveling eastbound.
The driver of the Ford remained at the location and fully cooperated with investigators, police said. At this stage, no arrests or citations have been made, and the collision remains under investigation. Detectives are analyzing scene evidence, reviewing vehicle positions, and checking nearby surveillance and traffic cameras to determine how the crash unfolded. It is not yet known whether speed, distraction, or impairment were factors.
The Long Beach Police Department’s Collision Investigation Detail is leading the inquiry. Authorities are asking anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident to contact Detective Efrain Pineda at 562-570-7355. Those wishing to remain anonymous can submit tips through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or lacrimestoppers.org.
Officials noted that pedestrian-related collisions often occur in just moments, leaving both pedestrians and drivers little time to react. The Pacific Coast Highway corridor is a particularly busy route, frequently used by commuters, delivery trucks, and local pedestrians. Police are using this incident to remind the public about roadway safety, urging drivers to stay alert and avoid distractions, while encouraging pedestrians to cross only at designated crosswalks and remain vigilant, especially during early-morning hours.
As the investigation continues, the Long Beach community is mourning the loss of Eduardo Jones, whose death serves as a sobering reminder of the risks pedestrians face on urban roadways. Authorities said they are committed to a complete and transparent investigation to bring clarity to the circumstances surrounding the crash and to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.