Jose Orbe arrested after Highway 111 hit-and-run bicycle crash

Orbe allegedly struck two juveniles biking near Adams Street and fled the scene

October 10, 2025 | La Quinta, CA
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Two juveniles sustained major injuries in a hit-and-run collision in La Quinta, California, when a vehicle struck them as they rode their bicycles. Authorities arrested the driver, Jose Villegas Orbe, 47, of Palm Springs, on suspicion of driving under the influence and fleeing the scene.

According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the incident highlights the serious consequences of impaired driving and the importance of remaining at the scene to provide aid.

Jose Villegas Orbe, 47, of Palm Springs was arrested following a hit-and-run bicycle crash on Highway 111 near Adams Street in Riverside County that seriously injured two juveniles.

What Happened in the Hit-and-Run Crash?

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department reported that the collision took place on Highway 111 near Adams Street in La Quinta.

• Date and Time: About 9 p.m. on Oct. 17, 2025
• Location: Highway 111 near Adams Street, La Quinta, California
• Victims: Two juveniles riding bicycles, both with major injuries requiring hospital treatment
• Suspect: Jose Villegas Orbe, 47, of Palm Springs, arrested on suspicion of DUI and hit-and-run
• Details: Orbe allegedly hit the juveniles and left the scene but was apprehended shortly after and booked into the John Benoit Detention Center
• Status: The investigation is ongoing

Why Do Hit-and-Run Accidents Happen?

Hit-and-run incidents frequently occur due to drivers' fear of consequences, impairment, or panic. Data from sources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show these crashes significantly impact road safety, especially for vulnerable users like pedestrians and cyclists.

Common causes include:

• Driver impairment from alcohol or drugs
• Absence of insurance or a valid license
• Anxiety over legal or financial repercussions
• Distractions or reduced visibility

Hit-and-Run Accident Statistics

Data sourced from the NHTSA Overview of Motor Vehicle Traffic Crashes in 2023. Between 2013 and 2019, hit-and-run crashes accounted for about 20 percent of pedestrian fatalities, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Expert Insights

Newsline features insights from national legal analysts to offer broader context on hit-and-run incidents, emphasizing road safety and potential legal options.

Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal on Hit-and-Run Investigations

“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence. An attorney can also ensure that a hit-and-run driver is held accountable for reckless actions.”

Key takeaways:

• Launch an independent probe quickly to safeguard victims' rights
• Hit-and-run incidents made up about 20 percent of pedestrian fatalities from 2013 to 2019, per IIHS
• Prompt medical care and legal steps are essential in these situations

Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal on Personal Injury Claims

“It is vital for victims to hire an attorney when filing a personal injury claim, which allows them to negotiate with an insurance company on behalf of a client. Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”

Key takeaways:

• Victims might file personal injury suits based on investigation outcomes
• Legal help eases the burden of injuries impacting family, employment, and finances
• Effective advocacy ensures fair treatment against insurance strategies

The analysts provide general commentary on similar incident types.

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