APPLE VALLEY, Calif. — Authorities have identified the pedestrian killed in a late-night traffic collision on Highway 18 as Hughie J. Sheppard, 37, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. The fatal crash happened Sunday night and led to extended road closures as investigators worked through the night to determine what caused the deadly incident.
The collision occurred at approximately 10:54 p.m. on Jan. 18, 2026, near the intersection of Highway 18 and Apple Valley Road in the Town of Apple Valley. Deputies from the Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station, along with rescue personnel from the Apple Valley Fire Protection District and American Medical Response, were dispatched to the scene after reports of a vehicle striking a pedestrian.
Investigators said a gray 2015 Nissan Altima was traveling eastbound in the No. 2 lane of Highway 18 when it struck a male pedestrian who was in or near the roadway. The vehicle was driven by a 21-year-old man from Victorville. When emergency crews arrived, they found the pedestrian with severe injuries.
The victim was initially described as a transient adult male and was later identified as Sheppard. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not said why Sheppard was in the roadway at the time or whether he was attempting to cross the highway when the crash occurred.
Officials confirmed that the driver remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. Law enforcement also stated that drugs or alcohol were not believed to be factors in the collision. At this time, no arrests have been made, and no charges have been announced as the investigation continues.
Due to the seriousness of the crash, the Major Accident Investigative Team (M.A.I.T.) was called in to take over the investigation. The eastbound lanes of Highway 18 between Stoddard Wells Road and Apple Valley Road were closed for approximately 6.5 hours while investigators documented evidence, examined the vehicle, and interviewed witnesses.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has information to come forward. Witnesses are urged to contact Deputy D. McCarter at the Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station at (760) 240-7400 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001. Officials are also reminding both drivers and pedestrians to use caution at night, when reduced visibility can increase the risk of serious accidents.
