An Inland Empire bicycle group is mourning the loss of two of their own after police say a drunk driver slammed into them over the weekend.
A group of about 30 bicyclists was enjoying a Halloween night ride on Saturday when a suspected DUI driver struck them near the intersection of Kingsley Street and Tudor Avenue. Now, a memorial is growing where the tragedy took place.
“It’s still hard to believe,” said Cristina Flores, a mourner. “More than anything, we feel for the family and the bike community, as well. We are all a big family.”
Two people were killed in the crash and two others were hurt. One of the fatal victims died of her injuries at the hospital and the other died at the scene. The Montclair Police Department said Robert Umanzo, 25, was dragged by the driver for about a mile and died at the scene.
“If you knew Bobby, you knew he was a good spirit,” said Olivia Gonzales, a friend of Umanzo. “(He was) full of love and dancing around and enjoying everyone’s vibe.”
Police said the driver ditched the vehicle and fled. He was found just hours later at his home nearby.
The driver was identified as Valentin Alberto Rodriguez, 38, of Montclair. He faces charges that include DUI and causing injury or death, felony hit-and-run and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
“It’s hard to believe someone would do that and not stop to help him,” Flores said. “Didn’t stop to call the police or see if they are OK. There has to be a change.”
The identity of the other cyclist who died has not been released.
