A 37-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a Riverside hit-and-run crash that killed 15-year-old Javier Gonzalez on the night of March 1. According to a KTLA News Report, teenage victim Gonzalez suffered major injuries in the collision near the intersection of Main and Poplar streets and died at the scene. But an arrest has now been made after an investigation into the tragic crash.
Riverside Hit-and-Run Crash Investigation
The investigation revealed that a black pickup was headed south on Main Street when it crashed into Gonzalez. The driver of the truck then allegedly fled the scene without stopping. However, the crash was captured on surveillance video by several businesses in the area. The footage was given to detectives to gather information on the crash and led them to the identity of the suspect in the fatal incident.
Officers arrested Rosendo Morales Caldera at his Riverside home earlier this week, and he is being held in jail without bail. Authorities also impounded his black Chevrolet truck. The family of the Riverside hit-and-run crash victim issued a statement saying that they are still devastated by this tremendous loss but are thankful that the man “who killed him is now in jail and we can slowly begin the healing process.”
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of Javier Gonzalez for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on news reports covering the Riverside hit-and-run crash, it appears that the driver of the Chevy truck struck and fatally injured the bicyclist and then fled the scene. Under California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a), it is illegal to leave the scene of an injury or fatal crash. Motorists are required to stop immediately, remain at the scene, exchange information with other parties, and provide aid to the injured victims, which could be something as simple as calling 911 so victims can get prompt medical attention.
When hit-and-run drivers are not apprehended, it can be emotionally devastating for victims’ families because not only have they lost a loved one, but they are unable to hold the at-fault driver accountable. We are relieved to note that the police have identified and charged a suspect in this case and trust that the justice system will do its job.
If an offending driver is caught, the victims of a hit-and-run can make a claim against the perpetrator. If not, you may still receive compensation if you have uninsured motorist insurance as part of your policy.
Families of deceased victims in car and bicycle collision incidents, such as this Riverside hit-and-run crash, would be well advised to contact an experienced injury attorney to handle their case. You need a Riverside hit-and-run lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and make sure that your legal rights and best interests are protected. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also be able to advise families about how their own auto insurance policy might apply to a hit-and-run crash or a case where the at-fault parties are uninsured or underinsured. Bisnar Chase has decades of experience handling hit-and-run lawsuits involving both apprehended suspects and insurance claims.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/man-arrested-in-riverside-hit-and-run-that-killed-teen-on-bicycle/
