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Palmdale man killed, Lancaster woman injured in alcohol-related wrong-way crash

by The AV Times Staff • February 15, 2017

PALMDALE – A 62-year-old man was arrested Tuesday evening after he drove his pickup truck into oncoming traffic and crashed into two vehicles, killing a Palmdale man and injuring a Lancaster woman, authorities said.

Michael Walsh of La Canada was arrested in connection with the deadly collision, which occurred around 6:21 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14, on Angeles Forest Highway, north of Upper Big Tujunga Canyon Road, according to a California Highway Patrol report.

Walsh was driving a 1993 Ford F150 pickup truck southbound on Angeles Forest Highway when he crossed the double yellow lines into the northbound lane and crashed into a 2000 Volkswagen Beetle and then collided with a 2009 Honda Accord, according to the CHP report.

The Beetle’s driver — 48-year-old Ross Banales Diaz of Palmdale — was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office.

The Honda Accord’s driver — 52-year-old Lisa Graham of Lancaster — sustained moderate injuries and was transported to Antelope Valley Hospital for treatment, according to the CHP report.

Walsh also sustained moderate injuries in the crash, and he “was placed under arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol,” the CHP report states.

Anyone with information regarding this collision is encouraged to contact Officer Taggart at the Antelope Valley CHP Office at 661-948-8541.

–

Filed Under: Crime/ Safety, Palmdale

19 comments for "Palmdale man killed, Lancaster woman injured in alcohol-related wrong-way crash"

  1. Paul says

    February 18, 2017 at 8:58 am

    I was minutes away from this accident I actually called 911 when I reached the. Bottom of the hill for cell phone reception. MAy GOD BE WITH ALL US.

  2. Anonymous says

    February 17, 2017 at 10:10 pm

    A GoFund me page has been set up for the Diaz family. If you’d like to contribute, here is the link: https://www.gofundme.com/for-the-diaz-family-with-love
    I only wish I could do more for this family.

  3. Frank says

    February 16, 2017 at 11:55 pm

    I heard of this accident in the news Tuesday nigth,just found out a person died in such horrible accident Mr Ross ,a great man I knew and had the opportunity to volunteer together at our sons robotics program,iam in shock my deepest simpathies for his family ,RIP Mr Ross we will miss you.

  4. Cesar says

    February 16, 2017 at 11:47 pm

    I was there when it happen, tried to help the most I could. There was only so much that we could have done, by the few of us that we’re there. I was there since it happen and till they were taken by hilicopter to the hospital. Till this day I still can’t forget that Scene. Finally found out the name of the individual. My prayers go out to Mr Ross family

  5. dave b says

    February 16, 2017 at 9:25 pm

    I will miss my friend Ross. We had long talks during our Kid’s robotics and travels and late night Security for our Fireworks booth. Great Friend and we’ll surely miss him. :( RIP Ross.

  6. Dave Norris says

    February 15, 2017 at 9:33 pm

    There were 4 cars in front of me stopped where the wreck happened last night. I’ve been driving that road for 24 years. Told my my wife when I got home that was the worst crash I had ever seen on the mountain road. I just knew some one was hurt really bad the way the cars were smashed up. My thoughts are with the man’s family who died. I agree that the CHP needs to watch that road more.
    People pass on blind curves and tailgate all the time on that road. So many stupid things people do
    Rest In Peace Mr. Diaz.

    • Unknown says

      February 16, 2017 at 6:27 pm

      What color was the pick up truck

      • Dave Norris says

        February 16, 2017 at 7:51 pm

        White. Back end of the truck was right on the edge of a steep drop off.

  7. Kely says

    February 15, 2017 at 7:07 pm

    It’s heartbreaking how the innocent drivers of a dui accident are always the ones that end up passing away . My condolences to the family

  8. Chequita Palmer says

    February 15, 2017 at 6:12 pm

    Ross was my employees and we have worked together sincw 2011. He had me laughing about something every day that we saw each other or had a phone conversation. I am very saddened by this tragic loss to his family and friends. My prayers are with them. I am blessed to have known him as a friend in my work life, as well as being able to discuss some of our personal life, especially about his children. Ross’ energy and personality had a profound effect on many who knew him. Mr. Ross Diaz is already greatly missed. RIP Ross

  9. Was there says

    February 15, 2017 at 4:16 pm

    Was at this accident

    • Unknown says

      February 16, 2017 at 6:29 pm

      What color was the truck

  10. callingitasitis says

    February 15, 2017 at 3:12 pm

    No matter how many laws we have on the books about DUI, reckless driving, cellphones use or texting and other safety laws WE keep losing lives because of self- centered Numbnutz. My condolences for the families who lost a love one. If you see a possible DUI call it in on your hand free device. The life you safe might be someone you love or even the Numbnutz behind the wheel.

    http://www.madd.org/local-offices/ca/los-angeles/old-content/victim-impact-panel.html

    • 10dog says

      February 15, 2017 at 3:38 pm

      They should take their Drivers license away from on first time they get arrested, but don’t see this happening as it would affect a lot of our Government officials too. And if they do drive again put them away for 10 years on the first offense

      • John says

        February 16, 2017 at 7:23 am

        These people will still drive with or without licenses, they don’t care.

  11. Karmen Mastin says

    February 15, 2017 at 1:53 pm

    Ross was a wonderful man with a big heart and a kind word for everyone. He was both a colleague and a friend to my family, and I am grateful that I had the chance to know him. My deepest sympathies to his loved ones for this terrible, tragic loss. He will certainly be missed. RIP Ross.

  12. Salina says

    February 15, 2017 at 1:31 pm

    CHP has been told, i person, on their facebook page, but nothing is ever done. Also, a couple times when i went to work late CHP was in the mountain….WHEN THERE are no commuters. They really need to be up for 6:30-8 am work schedules (5-7a m). Calling CHP, taking pictures or video doesn’t help; presence does.

    Maybe its going to take a high profile person losing their life, something will be done.

    • dale says

      February 16, 2017 at 1:28 am

      Salina, I agree something needs to be done. The CHP were on angels crest at 430 pm same day this happened.

  13. mark lazarus says

    February 15, 2017 at 1:14 pm

    My work friend – Ross Diaz – 48 years old – husband – father of 4 kids – was driving home from work yesterday evening – Valentines Day – when a man drove his pick up truck in the wrong direction apparently, under the influence of alcohol, and crashed into Mr. Diaz’s car, killing Mr. Diaz.

    The driver suffered minor injuries and was arrested for apparently being under the influence – driving the wrong way, and killing Mr. Diaz and injuring another motorist.

    In an instant, my friend, a good human being, a good father and husband, an LA County employee – was taken from us. RIP Ross – you will be missed. Via con Dios my friend.

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