Driver of Volkswagen Jetta struck man on Civic Drive then fled scene
December 02, 2025 | Victorville, CA
Authorities arrested 23-year-old Juan Torres from Adelanto following a hit-and-run incident that resulted in a pedestrian's death Tuesday evening.
Juan Torres, 23, of Adelanto was arrested after his Volkswagen Jetta struck and killed a pedestrian in hit-and-run on Amargosa Road and Civic Drive in Victorville.
What Happened in the Crash?
Torres was operating a silver Volkswagen Jetta when he collided with an unidentified male pedestrian near the intersection of Amargosa Road and Civic Drive around 6:29 p.m. The victim succumbed to injuries at the scene. Torres attempted to flee but was apprehended with support from the Sheriff's Aviation Unit.
The incident occurred directly outside the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Victorville Police Department facilities, drawing a swift and extensive emergency response from local authorities.
- Date and Time: Dec. 2, 2025, around 6:29 p.m.
- Location: Amargosa Road and Civic Drive, Victorville, CA
- Vehicle Involved: Silver Volkswagen Jetta
- Suspect: Juan Torres, 23, from Adelanto
- Victim: Unidentified male pedestrian, pronounced dead at the scene
- Investigating Agency: Victorville Police Major Accident Investigation Team
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian fatalities continue to rise despite widespread safety initiatives. Drivers must remain vigilant to prevent such tragedies. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), 2,304 pedestrians lost their lives in crashes across U.S. roadways during the first half of 2024 alone.
Statistic |
Value |
Source |
|---|
Pedestrian Fatalities (H1 2024) |
2,304 |
GHSA Report |
Common Contributing Factors |
Distracted Driving, Poor Visibility |
Federal Highway Administration |
Preventable Incidents |
Up to 90% with Attentive Driving |
CDC Guidelines |
In situations involving intersections, pedestrians often hold the right of way, whether in marked crosswalks or not. Factors such as road conditions, signage, and lighting play critical roles and require detailed examination.
Legal Insights
National legal analysts provide perspective on handling cases involving fatal pedestrian incidents.
“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal.
Key takeaways from analyst insights:
- Independent investigations by experienced professionals are essential to preserve evidence and protect families' rights in cases such as this.
- Road conditions, signage visibility, and lighting must be thoroughly reviewed as potential contributors.
- Time-sensitive actions help ensure accurate reconstruction of events.
“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “Family members may seek damages for loss of income, companionship, pain and suffering, funeral costs, and emotional distress.”
Analysts emphasize that insurance providers may push for rapid settlements below fair value. Skilled representation ensures families receive respectful and appropriate compensation.
The Victorville Police Major Accident Investigation Team continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Fleeing the scene not only delays potential aid but complicates efforts to establish fault.
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Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one needs help, she offers free consultations.
(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).