Driver fled after vehicle struck man near El Sobrante Road
December 31, 2025 | Lake Mathews, CA
A tragic hit-and-run incident claimed the life of Ronney Vasquez, a 61-year-old resident of Moreno Valley, on Dec. 31 east of Lake Mathews in Riverside County.
The California Highway Patrol is investigating the fatal pedestrian collision that occurred around 6 p.m.
Ronney Vasquez, 61, of Moreno Valley, died after he was struck by a vehicle on El Sobrante Road east of Mockingbird Canyon Road in Lake Mathews.
What Happened in the Crash?
Authorities report that an unidentified vehicle struck Vasquez on El Sobrante Road, east of Mockingbird Canyon Road. The driver fled the scene without rendering aid or providing information.
- Victim Details: Ronney Vasquez, 61, from Moreno Valley
- Location: El Sobrante Road, east of Mockingbird Canyon Road, Lake Mathews, CA
- Time: Approximately 6 p.m. on Dec. 31
- Vehicle Involved: Unknown make and model, and driver did not stop
- Outcome: Vasquez was pronounced dead at the scene
- Agency: California Highway Patrol (CHP) leading the investigation
The Riverside County coroner’s office confirmed Vasquez's identity following the incident.
Why Do Hit-and-Run Crashes Occur?
Hit-and-run incidents often stem from driver panic, fear of legal consequences, or impairment. In cases such as this, thorough investigations are crucial to hold responsible parties accountable.
The CHP urges anyone with information to contact them at 951-324-7210. The investigation into the driver's identity and circumstances remains ongoing.
Hit-and-Run Statistics Overview
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), hit-and-run crashes pose a severe threat to pedestrian safety. Below is a summary of key 2023 data:
Category |
Statistic |
Source |
|---|
Total Hit-and-Run Fatalities |
2,872 deaths |
NHTSA |
Total Pedestrian Deaths |
7,314 |
NHTSA |
Hit-and-Run Share of Pedestrian Deaths |
1,818 (25%) |
NHTSA |
Urban Area Incidence |
75% of cases |
NHTSA |
Trend Since 2019 |
Increase of 32% |
NHTSA |
These figures highlight the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures and swift accountability in such tragedies.
Legal Insights
Newsline features insights from national legal analysts to provide context on motor vehicle incidents like hit-and-run crashes.
“In cases such as this, having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a hit-and-run and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, a managing partner with Bond Legal. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that must be thoroughly examined. These procedures are necessary for helping those who have lost a loved one receive the justice they deserve.”
Key takeaways from the analysis:
- Comprehensive scene evaluation is essential for establishing fault.
- Environmental factors, such as lighting and road design, often play a role.
- Drivers must exercise utmost caution to prevent pedestrian harm.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.”
Families affected by such incidents may explore wrongful death claims for compensation related to loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
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If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a hit-and-run, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free, no-obligation consultation.
(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).