In a tragic incident that occurred over the weekend, authorities in Pomona have apprehended an 18-year-old suspect believed to be involved in a devastating hit-and-run collision. Erik Elias Perez was taken into custody on Monday by the Pomona Police Department on multiple charges, including vehicular manslaughter, Grand Theft Auto, and hit-and-run resulting in death.
The crash unfolded on Sunday evening at approximately 8:45 p.m. near the intersection of Gary and Bonita avenues. Upon arriving at the scene, emergency responders were confronted with an overturned SUV, with three individuals trapped inside the wreckage.
Regrettably, the driver and front seat passenger, a man and a woman, were pronounced dead by officials at the scene. As of now, their identities have not been released to the public. Firefighters worked diligently to extricate the third occupant, who was found in critical condition, from the backseat of the SUV. She was immediately transported to the hospital for urgent medical attention.
Video footage from the incident shows the suspect’s vehicle colliding with a tree on the sidewalk. An eyewitness, who rushed to provide aid, recounted observing the driver believed to be responsible for the crash fleeing the scene.
Pomona resident Bill Ryczek described the chaotic aftermath, stating, “Everything was chaotic… There was another guy grabbing his backpack or duffel bag and making a run away from the scene.” Ryczek valiantly pursued the suspect into an apartment complex, but unfortunately lost sight of him on Garey Ave.
The Pomona Police Department continues its investigation into the crash. They urge any additional witnesses or individuals with information regarding this tragic hit-and-run incident to come forward and contact the department at 909-802-7741 or 909-620-2048. The community is deeply saddened by this devastating event and hopes for justice to be served.
