Palm Springs Hit-and-Run Death Sparks Community Grief and Renewed Push for Pedestrian Safety

A deadly hit-and-run crash in Palm Springs has left a community mourning the loss of a familiar face—and calling for greater attention to pedestrian safety.

Fifty-six-year-old Ricardo Marano was killed earlier this month after being struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run collision. Now, friends and neighbors are turning their grief into a call for change, hoping his death will bring awareness to the dangers pedestrians face on local roadways.

For years, many Palm Springs residents recognized Marano not by name, but by his routine. Known affectionately as “The Walking Man,” Marano was a constant presence on city streets, finding peace and purpose in daily walks.

Marano’s regular walking routine made him a familiar and beloved part of the city’s landscape. Friends say he walked the same routes for years, quietly becoming part of the rhythm of Palm Springs.

According to Palm Springs police, Marano was fatally struck by a vehicle around 3:30 a.m. on East Vista Chino Road. The driver fled the scene.

Investigators later recovered a 2005 black Chevrolet Silverado believed to be involved in the crash. As of now, no arrests have been made.

Over the weekend, Nieuwendorp and other community members organized a walking vigil in Marano’s honor, retracing the same paths he once walked. The event served not only as a tribute, but also as a reminder of the risks pedestrians face every day.

Palm Springs police say hit-and-run crashes and pedestrian collisions remain a growing concern in the city. Officers are urging both drivers and pedestrians to stay alert, especially during early morning and nighttime hours.

Traffic Division Sergeant Jason Lamb cited distracted driving, low visibility, and distracted walking as common factors in recent pedestrian-involved incidents.

“Even a few extra seconds of attention on both sides of the road can save a life,” Lamb said.

For Nieuwendorp, the search for justice continues—but so does his commitment to remembering his friend for how he lived, not just how he died.

“He wasn’t just a victim,” Nieuwendorp said. “He was someone who loved this city and moved through it every single day.”

Palm Springs police are asking anyone with information about the hit-and-run crash to contact the department directly.