MALIBU, California — In a devastating incident on Sunday evening, December 24th 2023, a motorcycle crash in Malibu caused the death of the rider after colliding with an SUV on the Pacific Coast Highway. The accident occurred north of Decker Road around 6 p.m., where a man in his 30s struck a Cadillac Escalade that was backing out of a driveway, according to official reports.
The victim, identified as 32-year-old Jose Alfonso de Lira Piedra, was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders. The county coroner’s office released the identity of the motorcyclist in the aftermath of the tragic collision.
As a result of the incident, more than two miles of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) were temporarily closed to traffic near the crash site. Lanes were shut down between Mulholland Highway and Decker Road, causing disruptions in the area.
Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies, who responded to the scene, indicated that the preliminary investigation suggests the collision was an accident. Authorities stated that there is no indication of excessive speed or alcohol playing a role in the crash.
The stretch of PCH in Malibu has been under increased scrutiny this year following the deaths of four Pepperdine students. The tragic incident involved a driver losing control and colliding with the sorority sisters as they walked along the road, resulting in their immediate deaths.
Residents in the area have long expressed concerns about the safety of this stretch of the PCH, citing previous deadly crashes over the years. In response to these concerns, some improvements to the roadway are currently underway.
The local community is left mourning the loss of another life on Pacific Coast Highway, prompting ongoing discussions about the need for increased safety measures and improvements along this notorious stretch of road.
Our prayers are with the family and friends of the victim.
