In the span of a single day, Adelanto, California, was struck by two heartbreaking traffic collisions. The first, occurring in the early hours of September 24, took the life of 13-year-old Ronell Thomas, while a yet unnamed 12-year-old succumbed to his injuries in a separate incident the following morning. In the wake of these tragic incidents, the small city grapples with the somber realities of its losses, seeking answers and solace in the memories of its precious, vibrant youth.
According to a San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department statement, on Sunday, September 24th, deputies with the Victor Valley/Adelanto Station responded to an attempted traffic stop involving a vehicle driving without lights on. The driver of the vehicle, later found to be stolen, subsequently fled and crashed shortly thereafter.
Ronell Thomas was among the five occupants in the vehicle at the time of the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Two other 15-year-old occupants sustained injuries, and were transported to hospitals for treatment. The remaining two occupants fled on foot, with one remaining unidentified and at large. The vehicle involved, a 2015 Chevy Cruz, had been reported stolen the prior day. The Sheriff's Regional Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) is currently conducting the investigation.
As the community grieved the loss of one Adelanto child, another life was tragically lost the very next day. On September 25th, 07:11 a.m., an incident occurred at Jonathan Street and Seneca Road, west of Highway 395 in Adelanto. A 12-year-old boy was fatally struck by a vehicle while entering its path. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and cooperated with San Bernardino County investigators. The details surrounding this incident are still under investigation by the Major Accident Investigation Team.
In their efforts to bring solace amidst the overwhelming grief, Adelanto Mayor Gabriel Reyes and the City Council extended their heartfelt sympathies to the families involved. The city leadership also expressed their unified commitment to supporting the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department as it conducts thorough investigations into both incidents.
Investigations of both accidents are still ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. Anyone with insights into the stolen vehicle incident should contact the Victor Valley Station at (760) 552-6800 or Sheriff's Dispatch at (760) 956-5001. Anonymous sources can call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME or leave information online at www.wetip.com.
