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West Palm Beach, FL (September 2, 2026) – A 24-year-old West Palm Beach man died on Monday, August 31, after being struck by an SUV while crossing South Military Trail in unincorporated West Palm Beach, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash occurred around 11:43 p.m. Sunday in the 1900 block of South Military Trail. The pedestrian, identified as Lester Gutierrez, was initially taken to St. Mary’s Medical Center in critical condition and later died from his injuries Monday afternoon.
According to investigators, Gutierrez was crossing the roadway from west to east outside a marked crosswalk when he entered the path of a southbound 2020 GMC Terrain. The SUV’s right front struck him, causing him to hit the vehicle’s fender, hood, and windshield before being thrown onto the pavement.
The 42-year-old driver stopped at a nearby shopping plaza entrance and assisted until emergency personnel arrived. She was not injured, and investigators did not suspect alcohol or drug use on her part. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Vehicle Homicide Investigation Unit continues to investigate the fatal crash.
Our deepest condolences go out to Lester Gutierrez’s family, friends, and loved ones following this tragic loss. We hope they find comfort and support as they mourn his death.
How Can Pedestrians Stay Safer When Crossing Busy Roads?
Crossing a busy roadway outside a designated crossing can expose pedestrians to greater risks because drivers may not expect someone to enter the travel lanes from an unexpected location. Marked crosswalks and signalized intersections provide more predictable crossing points and can make it easier for motorists to anticipate pedestrian movement. Choosing a visible crossing location can give both pedestrians and drivers more time to respond.
Visibility is especially important at night or in areas with heavy traffic. Pedestrians can make themselves easier to see by wearing reflective or brightly colored clothing and avoiding crossing between parked vehicles or other objects that block a driver’s view. Staying attentive to approaching vehicles is also important, even when a pedestrian is crossing at a designated location.
Drivers can help prevent pedestrian crashes by scanning both sides of the roadway and reducing speed when visibility is limited. Extra care is useful near shopping areas, intersections, bus stops, and other places where people may be walking near traffic. Drivers should also remain prepared for pedestrians who may enter the roadway unexpectedly.
