Reporting Deputy: Sergeant Ronald Smith
File # JV221830178
Details:
On July 2, 2022, about 10:19 PM, deputies from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, Jurupa Valley Station, responded to the report of a major-injury traffic collision involving two vehicles on Sierra Avenue north of Karen Lane in the city of Jurupa Valley. Deputies arrived on scene to find Cal Fire and Fontana Fire personnel battling to extinguish both vehicles, which were on fire. Upon extinguishing the flames, the driver of the 2001 Lexus, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the 2017 Chevy Silverado, was extricated and transported to a local hospital for treatment of burns and injuries sustained in the collision. The investigation revealed the 2001 Lexus was involved in a street race with a 2019 Lexus, southbound on Sierra Avenue from the city of Fontana. Witnesses saw the 2001 Lexus lose control on Sierra Avenue, while navigating a curve at a high rate of speed. The 2001 Lexus crossed into oncoming traffic and collided head on with the Chevy Silverado, trapping both drivers and causing both vehicles to burst into flames.
The driver of the 2019 Lexus remained on scene and cooperated with the investigation. The driver of the 2019 Lexus was later booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center on charges of Gross Vehicular Manslaughter.
The identity of the deceased will not be released, pending further investigation and notification to the next of kin. A temporary closure of Sierra Avenue, between Karen Ln. (Jurupa Valley) and Jurupa Ave. (Fontana) was required in order to process the scene and collect evidence.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call Deputy Kenneth Shinn of the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station at 951-955-2600 or the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department at 951-776-1099.
Persons who wish to report criminal activity and wish to remain anonymous can call crime stoppers at 800-78-CRIME (800-782-7463) or 800-47-DRUGS (800-473-7847). You can also leave anonymous information on our Crime Tips Online Form.
For media inquiries regarding this incident please contact the Media Information Bureau.
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