Darien Burns Killed in Apple Valley Crash on Highway 18

APPLE VALLEY, Calif. (April 27, 2026) — Darien I. Burns, 31, has been identified as the man who died in a two-vehicle crash in Apple Valley one week ago at State Route 18 near the area known as Dead Man’s Point.

The collision was reported around 6:21 p.m. April 20 at Bear Valley Road and State Route 18, according to logs from the California Highway Patrol. Authorities described the incident as a side-impact or T-Bone crash involving a blue Nissan pickup and a black Chevrolet sedan.

First responders transported the driver of the sedan, identified as Darien Burns, to a nearby hospital with critical injuries. The young man later died at the hospital, officials said. His family has a GoFundMe page to raise money for his funeral expenses.

CHP officers remained at the scene for an extended period, documenting evidence and taking roadway measurements as part of the investigation.

The California Highway Patrol Victorville Area Office is leading the investigation.

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When it matters most, trust Attorney James Johnson at Johnson Attorneys Group. We are a personal injury law firm serving clients who have been injured throughout California due to negligent motorists. If you were hurt in this collision, call 1-(800) 208-3538. We will request the police report, and the attorney will discuss your options. You are under no obligation to hire us, and there is no cost unless we win your case. Our personal injury law firm is a proud, longtime supporter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).