PSPD strengthens Festival of Lights Parade safety after motorcycle accident
Luis Avila
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) — Palm Springs Police is rolling out new safety measures for this weekend’s Festival of Lights Parade after last year’s event took a frightening turn when a police motorcycle crashed into the crowd.
Thousands are expected to pack Palm Canyon Drive, including Bermuda Dunes resident Linda McCarthy. She remembers the crash clearly and says she was standing right across the street when it happened.
“I was shocked. That he pulled up the wheelie and did what he did. I’ve never seen that before.”
Linda McCarthy, Bermuda Dunes Resident
Police say they’ve made significant changes to prevent anything like that from happening again. Lieutenant Gustavo Araiza says the department has created a new policy. Officers will now follow a strict 15-mile-per-hour speed limit. No sudden movements or demonstrations will be allowed. Vehicles must keep at least 10 feet apart.
One of the biggest changes: no police motorcycles in this year’s parade.
“There won’t be any motorcycles during the parade. We will have officers on bicycles.”
Lt. Gustavo Araiza, Palm Springs Police Department
The city has also added heavy steel meridian barricades. Police will work alongside the DA’s Office, CHP, and regional SWAT teams. Officers will also be posted on rooftops for better visibility, and drones will be flying above the route.
Officials say the goal is to ensure the event remains safe, orderly, and enjoyable for the thousands of people attending.
“We’re taking precautions to ensure the safety of the community so when it comes to their safety if they see something that seems suspicious to let us know so we can address it.”
Lt. Gustavo Araiza, Palm Springs Police Department
Even with the memory of last year’s crash, McCarthy says she’s coming back. She says the parade brings a sense of childhood joy and community that people across the Coachella Valley look forward to every year.
Stay with News Channel 3 for more.