Driver Kills Two Cyclists in Halloween Hit-and-Run
A suspect was arrested on suspicion of DUI and vehicular manslaughter after striking a group in Montclair, California.
Two people were killed and two others injured when a driver allegedly plowed into a group of approximately 30 cyclists participating in a Halloween-themed ride late Saturday night in Montclair, California.
Authorities identified the suspect as Valentin Alberto Rodriguez, 38. He was arrested at his home around 2:40 a.m. Sunday on suspicion of driving under the influence, felony hit-and-run, and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. He was booked into the West Valley Detention Center.
The collision occurred around 10:40 p.m. Saturday at the intersection of Kingsley Street and Tudor Avenue. Police stated that Rodriguez, driving a Honda Accord, struck the cyclists. A 25-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. A 30-year-old woman was transported to a local hospital, where she died from her injuries shortly after 1 a.m. Sunday.
Another cyclist sustained major injuries and remains in stable condition, while a fourth victim suffered a head laceration but declined further treatment. The identities of the victims have not yet been released.
Witnesses told KTLA that at least one victim may have been dragged more than a mile. The Montclair Police Department urged anyone with information regarding the crash to contact them at 909-621-4771 or submit anonymous tips to WeTip at 800-78-CRIME.
Police confirmed that the Halloween ride was not sponsored, organized, or affiliated with the City of Montclair.