HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. – A quiet Monday morning turned tragic in Huntington Beach when a driver struck three cyclists along Pacific Coast Highway near Newland Street, leaving one person dead and two others injured. The fatal crash occurred just before 7 a.m., according to the Huntington Beach Police Department, and has once again raised serious concerns about cyclist safety on one of California’s busiest coastal roadways.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene moments after the collision, finding three cyclists down near the northbound lanes. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, one of the riders could not be saved. The two others were transported to a nearby hospital with moderate injuries. The driver involved remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities, police confirmed.
Investigators said that neither alcohol nor drugs appear to have been factors in the incident. The exact cause remains under investigation as officers review surveillance footage and interview witnesses. Pacific Coast Highway was temporarily closed between Beach Boulevard and Magnolia Street during the investigation, causing significant traffic delays through the morning.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for everyone involved,” a Huntington Beach Police spokesperson said. “Our deepest condolences go out to the victim’s family and the entire cycling community.”
The name of the cyclist who lost their life has not been released pending family notification.
A Shock to the Community
News of the collision has left the Huntington Beach community in mourning. The Pacific Coast Highway — known for its scenic ocean views — is also recognized by local riders as one of the most challenging and high-risk routes due to fast-moving traffic and limited bike lane protection.
“It’s devastating,” said one local cyclist who often rides that stretch. “We share the road every day, but it doesn’t always feel safe. We need real protection, not just painted bike lanes.”
Over the years, city officials have taken steps to improve safety along the highway, but advocates say Monday’s tragedy underscores the need for greater investment in protected lanes, traffic calming measures, and education for both drivers and cyclists.
Renewed Calls for Safety
Cycling advocacy groups across Orange County have once again called for urgent action. “This loss is one too many,” said a spokesperson for the Orange County Bicycle Coalition. “We need infrastructure that prioritizes people’s lives over speed. Every crash like this is preventable.”
Residents have also voiced frustration that despite repeated warnings and prior incidents, the area continues to see dangerous interactions between vehicles and cyclists.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage to contact the Huntington Beach Police Department’s Traffic Bureau. Officers are continuing to analyze the scene to determine the sequence of events that led to the tragedy.
As the sun set over Pacific Coast Highway Monday evening, passersby placed flowers and candles near the intersection — a small but heartfelt tribute to a life lost too soon.
“This should never become normal,” said one mourner. “We need safer roads for everyone.”