COSTA MESA, Orange County, Calif., Oct. 22, 2026 — A pedestrian was reportedly struck in a crosswalk on Wednesday afternoon, October 21, near the northbound Harbor Boulevard on-ramp to southbound Interstate 405 in Costa Mesa. The driver fled the scene, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The collision happened in the crosswalk before the on-ramp merges onto the freeway. Dispatch logs show the call came in around 5:28 p.m., with Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue and police units sent to the scene within minutes.
Paramedics with Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue were already en route as the report came through, suggesting the injuries were serious enough to prompt an immediate medical response. The extent of the injuries has not been released.
The driver involved left before officers arrived, and no description of the vehicle or suspect has been made public. The CHP said the incident remains under investigation, and anyone with information has been asked to come forward.
We wish the injured a complete and speedy recovery.
More on Crashes in Costa Mesa, CA
This crash happened on Interstate 405 in Costa Mesa, CA. We cover crashes across Orange County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Orange County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do weather and road conditions affect crash risk in areas like this?
Visibility and lighting near freeway on-ramps can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians, especially in the early evening. Wet pavement or glare can add to the risk, though conditions in this incident have not been detailed.
What should someone do immediately after being hit as a pedestrian or witnessing it happen?
Call 911 right away, try to get a description of the vehicle and driver if possible, and ask any bystanders to stay as witnesses. Seeking medical evaluation quickly matters even if injuries seem minor at first.
Where do these kinds of crashes tend to happen?
Crosswalks near freeway on-ramps and off-ramps see frequent pedestrian conflicts because drivers are usually focused on merging traffic rather than scanning for people on foot.
What happens if the driver who caused the crash doesn't stay at the scene?
Leaving the scene of an injury collision is a crime in California. Investigators typically rely on witness accounts, nearby cameras, and vehicle debris to identify the driver and vehicle involved.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Crosswalk Crash in Costa Mesa, CA
If you or someone you know is involved in a hit-and-run as a pedestrian, get medical care as soon as possible, even if pain or injury isn't immediately obvious. Adrenaline can mask the severity of an injury in the first hours afterward. Write down everything you remember about the vehicle, including color, approximate size, and direction of travel, and note any nearby businesses or homes that might have surveillance footage. File a report with local police if one hasn't already been taken, and keep copies of any medical records or bills tied to the incident. Costa Mesa residents and visitors alike should know that reporting promptly gives investigators the best chance of identifying the driver and holding them accountable.