REDLANDS, CA – A 24-year-old San Bernardino man has been arrested in connection with a tragic hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of an elderly motorcyclist in Redlands.
The Fatal Collision
The incident occurred on Tuesday, June 9, around 5:30 p.m. on Highway 38, between Amethyst and Garnet streets. According to the Redlands Police Department, a 73-year-old motorcyclist collided with a vehicle, causing him to be ejected from his bike.
The impact caused fuel to leak from the motorcycle, which subsequently ignited.
Bystanders Rush to Help
Heroic bystanders immediately rushed to the scene to extinguish the flames and perform CPR on the victim until emergency responders arrived. The elderly man, identified only as a Redlands resident, was transported to a local hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
The driver of the vehicle fled the scene immediately following the crash without checking on the victim.
Suspect Identified and Arrested
Detectives utilized witness dashcam footage and nearby traffic cameras to track down the fleeing vehicle. On Thursday, June 11, police arrested the suspect, identified as Victor Gonzalez, at his home on the 7800 block of McKinley Avenue.
At the residence, officers discovered the suspect’s vehicle:
- Make/Model: Gold 2008 Mercedes-Benz C30
- Condition: Extensive collision damage to the driver’s side, concealed under a tarp.
Investigation Ongoing
The investigation into the collision remains active. Authorities are urging anyone who may have additional information regarding the incident to contact Redlands Police Dispatch at 909-798-7681.
