Martin Ramirez Jr., Nicholas Howell Obituary, Death – Authorities in Huntington Beach are investigating a tragic collision that claimed the lives of a motorcyclist and a pedestrian on Thursday evening. According to the Huntington Beach Police Department, officers responded to reports of a crash around 8:27 p.m. near the intersection of Beach Boulevard and Ellis Avenue. The incident involved a black Harley-Davidson motorcycle and a pedestrian who had been crossing the road.
When first responders arrived, they discovered both individuals lying on the roadway and unresponsive. Paramedics provided immediate medical assistance, but despite their efforts, both men were pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials later identified the motorcyclist as 45-year-old Martin Ramirez Jr. of Los Angeles and the pedestrian as 46-year-old Nicholas Howell, a resident of Huntington Beach who was experiencing homelessness.
Police said the preliminary investigation shows the motorcycle was traveling southbound on Beach Boulevard when the pedestrian crossed the street outside of a marked crosswalk. The collision occurred shortly thereafter. Authorities noted that it remains unclear whether impairment, speed, or other contributing factors played any role in the incident.
The Huntington Beach Police Department’s Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) has taken over the case to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the fatal crash. Investigators are examining vehicle speed, visibility, lighting conditions, and road design as part of their analysis.
The intersection where the crash took place, Beach Boulevard and Ellis Avenue, is a busy multi-lane roadway that serves as one of the city’s main traffic corridors. Local residents say the area can be challenging for both drivers and pedestrians, especially at night when visibility is reduced. Several residents noted that crossing outside marked crosswalks in this section of the boulevard can be particularly risky because of heavy evening traffic.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident to contact Traffic Investigator V. Rattanchandani at 714-536-5231. Tips can help piece together the moments leading up to the collision and provide clarity about what happened.
The deaths of Ramirez and Howell have deeply affected the local community. Friends and family of Ramirez described him as a passionate motorcycle enthusiast who loved the open road and often rode along California’s coastal highways. Those who knew him say he was friendly, hardworking, and dedicated to his loved ones.
Meanwhile, community advocates have expressed sympathy for Howell, noting the ongoing challenges faced by people living without stable housing. Several residents said they hope the incident will bring more attention to pedestrian safety and the need for better lighting and crosswalks in high-traffic areas.
This tragic crash adds to a growing number of fatal traffic incidents in Huntington Beach this year. Police data shows that while motorcycle and pedestrian safety remain top priorities for city officials, crashes involving both groups continue to raise concerns about driver awareness and road-sharing etiquette.
Huntington Beach police have urged all motorists and pedestrians to remain cautious, especially at night. They emphasized the importance of wearing reflective clothing when walking near busy streets and reminded motorcyclists to maintain safe speeds and remain alert to pedestrians who may be crossing unexpectedly.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities said more information will be released once their findings are complete.
In the meantime, the Huntington Beach Police Department extended condolences to the families and friends of both victims, saying their thoughts are with everyone affected by this heartbreaking loss.
