Deadly DUI crash occurred at the intersection of Ivy Avenue and Palmetto Avenue.
FONTANA, CA, (June 21, 2025) - A suspected drunk driver struck and killed a bicyclist late Saturday night in Fontana, authorities reported.
Gilbert Perez, 31, was allegedly driving under the influence when he struck and killed a male bicyclist Saturday night in Fontana, authorities said.
The fatal collision occurred shortly after 11 p.m. on June 21 near the intersection of Ivy Avenue and Palmetto Avenue, just south of Foothill Boulevard.
According to a preliminary investigation, 31-year-old Gilbert Perez was behind the wheel of a vehicle that struck a man riding a bicycle. The victim, whose identity has not yet been released, was transported to a hospital but sadly succumbed to his injuries.
Perez was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence causing bodily injury.
The incident remains under investigation.
CRASH INVESTIGATION NEEDED
As required by law in many U.S. states, drivers must leave at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist. In 2023 alone, 1,166 cyclists were killed in traffic-related crashes across the country, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
“Bicyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, and many factors can lead to tragic accidents,” said Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal and a seasoned bicycle accident attorney.
“It is crucial to determine the exact cause of such incidents,” Bond added. “An attorney can review insurance coverage, bring in expert witnesses, conduct background checks, and locate key witnesses. We work closely with the victim’s family to ensure their rights are protected and they receive the guidance they need.”
Bond emphasized the importance of launching an independent investigation as soon as possible to preserve evidence critical to the case.
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Pending the outcome of the investigation, the family of the bicyclist killed in the crash may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. Surviving loved ones can seek compensation for loss of companionship, emotional distress, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from a tragic incident like this.
Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal, stated, “Grieving families of victims are often overwhelmed by the legal processes meant to protect their rights.”
“An attorney can be a compassionate and valuable advocate, helping guide families through this difficult time and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve,” Bond added.
If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one due to a drunk driver, national legal analyst Candice Bond offers free consultations to guide you.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).