Half Moon Bay, CA (June 27, 2026) – A 20-year-old woman was injured after a California State Parks lifeguard pickup truck struck her on Wednesday afternoon at Francis Beach in Half Moon Bay State Beach. The accident happened at about 3:45 p.m. while the lifeguard was on patrol.
Investigators said the woman was lying on the sand when the pickup truck ran over her. Preliminary information indicated the lifeguard was allegedly distracted before the collision occurred.
The woman was taken to a local hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. Witnesses at the beach reported seeing emergency units working to free her from beneath the pickup truck.
The circumstances surrounding the accident continue to be examined.
We are keeping the injured woman in our thoughts and wish her a full recovery.
Why Are Vehicle Incidents on Beaches Reviewed Carefully?
Vehicles operating on beaches face different challenges than those traveling on paved roads. Soft sand, limited visibility of people lying on the beach, and changing pedestrian activity can all affect safe vehicle operation.
Investigators often review the vehicle’s travel path, visibility, speed, weather, and the driver’s actions before contact occurred. Witness statements, photographs, and physical evidence may also help explain how the roadway encounter developed. These findings can provide a clearer timeline and identify the factors that contributed to the collision.