Seventy-three-year-old motorcyclist died in the Redlands accident
June 09, 2026 | Redlands, CA
What happened in the crash?
A 73-year-old motorcyclist was struck on June 9 around 5:30 p.m. on Highway 38 in Redlands between Amethyst and Garnet streets.
Victor Gonzalez, 24, was arrested after a hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of a 73-year-old motorcyclist on Highway 38 in Redlands.
The victim's motorcycle sustained damage that caused fuel to leak and ignite, setting both the bike and rider on fire.
Victor Gonzalez, 24, was arrested two days later at his home on the 7800 block of McKinley Avenue, a gold 2008 Mercedes-Benz C30, showing extensive driver-side damage, which was recovered under a tarp.
Why do these accidents happen?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than one in 10 fatal crashes in California is a hit-and-run. Between 2017 and 2021, California recorded 1,901 hit-and-run fatal crashes out of 18,137 total, the highest number nationwide.
| Statistic | California | National Average |
|---|
| Hit-and-run fatal crashes (2017-2021) | 1,901 | 6.33% |
| Total fatal crashes | 18,137 | Not Available |
Legal Insights
In cases such as this, Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal, noted that an independent investigation helps protect family rights after a motor vehicle crash.
“Having the proper resources is crucial to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence,” Bond said. Road conditions, signage, and lighting are among factors examined.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, added that relatives may pursue compensation for loss of companionship and emotional distress.
“We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital,” Formica said.
- Thorough review of official reports supports the pursuit of accountability.
- Legal teams monitor developments to safeguard family interests.
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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).
Tags: Latest News, Non Commercial, Motorcycle Accident, California, Highway 38, Amethyst Street, Fatal Hit-and-Run, Motorcycle Crash, Garnet Street