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Palm Springs, CA (April 17, 2026) – A 25-year-old man was killed early Thursday, April 17, following a high-speed crash near Palm Springs International Airport.
The crash occurred around 2:18 a.m. near East Tahquitz Canyon Way and El Cielo Road, in front of the airport. Emergency units arrived to find a vehicle overturned on top of a parked car in a nearby parking lot.
Investigators said the driver, identified as Anthony De La Rosa of Desert Hot Springs, was traveling eastbound at a high rate of speed when the vehicle left the roadway. The car crossed a grassy area near a fountain, became airborne, and passed between two palm trees before crashing into the parking lot and landing on another vehicle.
De La Rosa, who was the sole occupant, was ejected and suffered critical injuries. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead at approximately 3:03 a.m.
No other injuries were reported in the crash, and airport operations were not affected.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
How High-Speed Crashes Can Lead to Vehicles Leaving the Roadway
High-speed crashes often reduce a driver’s ability to maintain control, especially when approaching curves, intersections, or uneven surfaces. At higher speeds, even small steering movements can cause a vehicle to veer off the road.
When a vehicle leaves the roadway, it may encounter grass, curbs, or other surfaces that affect traction. This can cause the car to lift off the ground, particularly if there are elevation changes or objects in its path.
Airborne crashes tend to result in severe damage due to the impact force upon landing. The risk increases further if the vehicle strikes other objects or vehicles, as the energy from the crash is transferred rapidly, often leading to serious or fatal outcomes.
