Two-Vehicle Collision near Shady Lane Left Two Elderly La Quinta Residents Dead

THERMAL, CA (January 19, 2023) – Friday night, a semi-truck accident on Airport Boulevard killed Henry Villanueva and Sandra Villanueva.

Authorities responded to the scene around 6:00 p.m., just east of Shady Lane and north of Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport.

Upon arrival, units discovered an unidentified vehicle and a semi-truck that collided for reasons currently under investigation. 

Due to the extent of injuries sustained, the occupants of the unidentified vehicle died at the scene. Later on, the Riverside County coroner’s office identified the deceased victims as 73-year-old Henry Villanueva and 72-year-old Sandra Villanueva.

Meanwhile, the semi-truck driver remained uninjured. 

No further details have been released to the public at this time; however, Riverside County Officials will provide more information once available. An active investigation is still currently underway.


Sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Henry Villanueva and Sandra Villanueva. Thoughts are with them during this very difficult time.


Losing a loved one in a semi-truck accident can have devastating effects on the emotional and financial well-being of those left behind. Let the wrongful death attorneys at Sweet James help you during this trying time. With 20 years of experience in the field, they know what it takes to help you win your case. All of the attorneys at Sweet James strongly believe each client’s case is unique and deserves full individual attention. They will fight to achieve the justice and compensation that you and your family deserve. Call their office today at (800) 500-5200 for a free and confidential case evaluation. They are available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week through email, text, and online chat.

For more accident news, click here.

Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.