Beloved Phelan Resident David Joe Banales, 61, Tragically Killed in Victorville Pedestrian Incident; Community Mourns and Calls for Greater Road Safety

VICTORVILLE, CALIFORNIA — April 2025 — The close-knit community of Phelan is in mourning after the tragic and sudden loss of David Joe Banales, a 61-year-old resident who passed away following a devastating incident involving a vehicle in Victorville on April 9, 2025. Known to many for his kind demeanor, gentle spirit, and strong community ties, David’s untimely death has sparked grief across San Bernardino County and renewed concerns about pedestrian safety in semi-rural areas.

According to authorities, the fatal incident occurred in the late evening hours along a dimly lit roadway on the outskirts of Victorville. Initial reports indicate that David was struck while walking near the shoulder of the road. Emergency responders were dispatched quickly, but despite their best efforts, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

The driver involved remained at the location and is cooperating fully with the investigation, according to the Victorville Police Department. No charges have been filed at this time, and the collision is being treated as a tragic accident. Investigators are examining the lighting conditions, road visibility, and other environmental factors that may have contributed to the fatal event.

David’s passing has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. A lifelong resident of the High Desert area, he was well known throughout Phelan and neighboring communities for his warmth, humility, and willingness to lend a hand. Friends describe him as a man who always had time for others—a friendly face at the market, a regular at community events, and a neighbor who treated everyone like family.

“He was the kind of person who didn’t need to speak loudly to make a difference,” said longtime friend and neighbor Maria Lopez. “David showed his love through actions—he helped fix your fence without being asked, or checked on your family when the power went out. He made people feel seen.”

David’s death also highlights the growing concern about pedestrian fatalities in Victor Valley, particularly in semi-rural towns where street lighting is limited, sidewalks are few, and vehicle speeds tend to be higher. These environments can be especially dangerous for pedestrians during nighttime hours.

According to recent data from transportation safety officials, pedestrian deaths in rural and semi-rural parts of California have risen in recent years, often due to a combination of poor visibility, insufficient pedestrian infrastructure, and the increased use of larger, heavier vehicles. Advocates are calling for enhanced lighting, more crosswalks, and lower speed limits in certain zones to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.

“We’re heartbroken,” said Supervisor Paul Cook of San Bernardino County’s 1st District. “This is a tragedy that should remind all of us—drivers and pedestrians alike—of the importance of vigilance, awareness, and infrastructure that protects every life.”

As his loved ones begin the process of grieving, they are remembering David not for how he died, but for how he lived—with compassion, consistency, and quiet courage. A candlelight vigil is being planned in his honor near the site of the incident, where friends and family will gather to pay their respects and call attention to pedestrian safety.

A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to help the Banales family with funeral and memorial costs. The page has already seen an outpouring of support from those moved by David’s story and legacy.

Funeral arrangements are being coordinated by the Banales family and will be shared with the community in the coming days.
To support the family or leave messages of condolence, visit the memorial site linked in local community social media pages.

David Joe Banales was more than a statistic—he was a father, a friend, a neighbor, and a deeply loved member of the Phelan community. May his memory be a blessing, and may his passing serve as a call to action for safer streets for all.