Riverside County, CA – Fatal Crash Along I-10 Near Cactus City Rest Stop Claims the Lives of David and Kimberly Lynch
RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — Authorities have confirmed the tragic deaths of David Lynch, 68, and Kimberly Lynch, 65, following a fatal crash that occurred on the morning of Thursday, July 24, 2025, along Interstate 10 near the Cactus City rest stop in Riverside County. The couple, who were traveling together, tragically lost their lives after their vehicle collided with another in what authorities are describing as a preventable, heart-wrenching accident.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the California Highway Patrol (CHP), has been investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, which occurred just after 7:00 AM in a part of I-10 that is often heavily trafficked by travelers heading towards Southern California or the Coachella Valley.
A Devastating Loss
The victims, David and Kimberly Lynch, both residents of San Bernardino County, were known in their community for their dedication to each other and their family. The couple had been married for over 40 years, and their lives together were filled with love, support, and shared memories. David, a retired businessman, and Kimberly, a former schoolteacher, were enjoying their retirement years, often traveling together to explore new places and visit family and friends.
“David and Kimberly were inseparable,” said Rachel Lynch, the couple’s daughter. “They had such a strong bond, and they truly enjoyed life. They loved to travel, and they were just as excited to spend time with their grandkids as they were to take a road trip together. It’s hard to believe that they’re gone.”
Friends and family have described the couple as caring and warm-hearted individuals who were always willing to help others. Whether it was volunteering at community events, lending a hand to a neighbor, or simply being a source of support to those in need, the Lynches were well-loved in their community.
“They were the kind of people who would do anything for you,” said Jackie Rivera, a longtime neighbor. “They were always there for others, and they had such a positive energy about them. It’s heartbreaking to know they’re no longer here.”
The Fatal Incident: A Morning of Tragedy
The crash occurred in the early morning hours of Thursday, July 24, on the eastbound lanes of Interstate 10, near the Cactus City rest stop, which is located roughly 30 miles west of the city of Blythe and about 125 miles east of Palm Springs. According to California Highway Patrol (CHP), the Lynches were traveling in their 2015 Toyota Camry when their vehicle collided with a Freightliner semi-truck. The truck, which was also traveling eastbound, was reportedly in the process of merging into the right lane when the Camry was struck.
Reports indicate that the semi-truck and the Camry collided in a chain of events that resulted in the smaller vehicle being pushed off the highway and into the embankment. Emergency crews arrived on the scene within minutes, but unfortunately, both David and Kimberly Lynch were pronounced dead shortly after paramedics attempted to resuscitate them.
“The investigation is still in its early stages, but it appears that the collision occurred as the truck attempted to change lanes,” said Officer Daniel Vargas, spokesperson for the California Highway Patrol. “We are continuing to gather evidence, including speaking with witnesses and reviewing traffic camera footage, to determine the exact cause of the crash.”
While it is unclear whether the driver of the semi-truck was at fault, CHP has confirmed that the driver remained on the scene and has been fully cooperative with investigators. There is no indication of impaired driving or foul play, and authorities are continuing to examine the vehicle dynamics and roadway conditions to further clarify the chain of events.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the victims,” Officer Vargas added. “This is a tragic situation, and our goal is to get the answers that can help bring some closure to the Lynch family.”
A Community in Mourning
The loss of David and Kimberly Lynch has left a significant void in their family and local community. The couple, who had no children of their own, had recently become proud grandparents and were known for their close-knit relationships with extended family members. Their children, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren were deeply attached to them, and the couple’s passing has left them reeling from grief.
“It’s hard to put into words what this means for our family,” said Rachel Lynch, their daughter. “I never thought I would be planning a funeral for my parents. They were supposed to have many more years together. We had so many more memories to make.”
The couple’s extended family has rallied together to support each other in the wake of this sudden and devastating loss. While mourning the loss of their parents, children, and grandparents, the family is also remembering the couple’s joy for life and the positive influence they had on everyone around them.
“We are heartbroken, but we are going to honor their memory by living our lives the way they lived theirs—by showing love, kindness, and support to one another,” Rachel added. “That’s what they would have wanted. They were always there for us, and we will always be there for each other.”
The Importance of Road Safety and Awareness
The tragic crash has sparked conversations about road safety, particularly on busy highways like I-10, which is known for heavy truck traffic and its long stretches through the desert. With truck-related accidents accounting for a significant number of fatalities each year, experts are calling for increased awareness about safe driving practices—especially when it comes to sharing the road with large vehicles.
Anna Tran, an advocate for road safety in California, spoke out about the importance of improving infrastructure and safety measures on highways such as I-10.
“We’ve seen too many accidents like this on our highways,” Tran said. “Both large vehicles and smaller cars must be aware of their surroundings, and the importance of safe lane changes, maintaining distance, and using caution cannot be overstated. The family’s tragic loss should remind us all of the need to be vigilant on the road.”
Tran and others in the road safety community have called for better driver education, more robust truck regulations, and increased enforcement of road safety laws, particularly in high-traffic areas where such collisions are more likely to occur.
The Investigation: Seeking Answers and Closure
As of now, the California Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into the crash. While the cause of the accident has not been definitively determined, authorities are reviewing data from the truck’s black box, eyewitness accounts, and any available dashcam footage that may provide more clarity.
“We are committed to gathering all the facts and conducting a thorough investigation to determine what happened,” Officer Vargas said. “Our main priority is to ensure that the Lynch family gets the answers they deserve.”
Remembering David and Kimberly Lynch
David and Kimberly Lynch’s passing has left a void in the lives of those who knew and loved them. Their family, friends, and community members are mourning their loss, but also celebrating their lives and the indelible marks they left on everyone they encountered.
The couple’s love for each other, their devotion to their family, and their commitment to living life to the fullest will continue to inspire those who were closest to them. Friends and family have vowed to honor their memory by sharing stories of the couple’s generosity, love, and kindness.
A memorial service for David and Kimberly Lynch will be held in the coming days, and their family is planning to establish a scholarship fund in their name to help underprivileged students attend college, something that David and Kimberly always supported.
“They were the best parents and grandparents we could have asked for,” Rachel Lynch shared. “We’ll miss them every day, but we will keep their spirit alive. They taught us to live with love, humility, and generosity.”
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