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Santa Monica, CA (May 16, 2026) – A pedestrian was killed on Friday afternoon, May 15, after being struck by a bus near the intersection of Main Street and Ocean Park Boulevard in Santa Monica.
According to the Santa Monica Police Department, the collision happened around 2 p.m. Officials said the investigation is still in its early stages, and detectives have not yet determined the events leading up to the crash.
The Los Angeles Metro stated in a release that the pedestrian was not in the crosswalk at the time of the incident and became positioned under the bus as it was pulling away from the area. Emergency units responded quickly to the scene, and the intersection was closed for several hours while investigators worked.
Main Street was shut down between Ocean Park Boulevard and Hollister Avenue, and traffic on westbound Ocean Park Boulevard approaching Main Street was also impacted. Drivers were advised to avoid the area during the investigation. Additional details have not yet been released as officials continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the crash.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the pedestrian.
What Factors Are Commonly Reviewed in Pedestrian-Bus Collisions?
Pedestrian collisions involving buses often require detailed reconstruction because of the size of the vehicle and limited visibility around its turning and stopping areas. Investigators typically examine the bus’s position, speed, and departure timing to understand how the incident occurred.
Crosswalk usage and pedestrian location are also key factors, especially in busy urban intersections with frequent foot traffic. Video footage, witness statements, and onboard bus data systems may help establish a clearer timeline. Visibility conditions, driver blind spots, and roadway layout are also commonly reviewed in these cases. In many pedestrian crashes involving large vehicles, investigators focus on movement patterns just before impact to determine how the situation developed.
