Rachel M., a 33-year-old resident of Rialto, was killed after the driver of the vehicle she was in crashed and fled the scene, leaving her behind with life-threatening injuries on West Merrill Avenue in Rialto on Friday evening, February 21, 2025.
According to the Rialto Police Department, the fatal incident occurred at approximately 8:17 p.m. Officers responded to reports of a single-vehicle collision at the 500 block of West Merrill Avenue and found the victim alone in the vehicle, suffering from critical injuries. Despite the officers’ emergency first aid efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene at 8:25 p.m.
The victim lost her life after the driver, identified as 28-year-old Joshua C. of Rialto, allegedly sped over 85 mph eastbound on Merrill Avenue in a white 2021 Ford Mustang. The driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle at the intersection of Cactus Avenue, crashing into multiple trees before coming to a stop in the westbound lanes.
Authorities stated that the suspect fled the scene, abandoning his passenger in the wrecked vehicle. Witnesses later identified him, and he was apprehended by police. He sustained only minor injuries from the crash.
The investigation revealed evidence suggesting that the suspect was driving under the influence of alcohol and that speed contributed to the fatal collision.
The suspect was booked into a San Bernardino County jail for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, with bail set at $100,000.
The Rialto Police Department Major Accident Investigation Team is leading the investigation.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
