Victim was dragged by car after driver struck group of bicyclists, killing 2 in Montclair
By Madison Weil, Tim Pulliam
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MONTCLAIR, California (KABC) — A suspected drunk driver struck a group of bicyclists during a Halloween ride in Montclair Saturday night, killing two people and dragging one victim before fleeing, according to witnesses.
The incident unfolded just before 11 p.m. Saturday at the intersection of Kingsley Street and Tudor Avenue, according to the Montclair Police Department.
About 30 people were riding bicycles when a suspected drunk driver struck several of the riders and took off. Witnesses say the group was participating in a self-coordinated Halloween ride.
The driver kept going after hitting the bicyclists, dragging the second victim for at least a mile, according to witnesses. The suspect then ditched his blood-stained car and ran away.
One bicyclist died at the scene. Two others were taken to the hospital, where one of them later succumbed to her injuries, police said. The other rider suffered major injuries but is in stable condition.
Just hours after the deadly collision, police found the driver at his home near the scene. Valentin Alberto Rodriguez, 38, was arrested on suspicion of several charges, including driving under the influence.
Rodriguez now faces several felonies, including hit-and-run and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
As the sun set Sunday, balloons and candles continued to accumulate at the crash site, marking the spot where a festive Halloween bike ride ended in tragedy. Neighbors and loved ones gathered to mourn the victims and support their families.
Winni Mercado lives nearby and said she heard the aftermath of the crash; loved ones crying and wailing over a victim’s body on the pavement.
“It was just awful. It was just awful. I know that I will never get that sound out of my head. Just feeling that pain,” she said.
Neighbors and loved ones are left grieving.
“My heart breaks for you. I can’t fathom or imagine what they’re going through right now…on something that was so innocent. Just kids having fun. My prayers are with them,” Mercado said.
Anyone with further information about the collision is urged to contact the Montclair Police Department at (909) 621-4771.
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