In a tragic incident that unfolded on the peaceful streets of Apple Valley, a man's life was abruptly ended following a severe traffic collision involving his all-terrain vehicle and a compact SUV. On the afternoon of October 12th, local authorities received a distress call at approximately 4:59 p.m., which spurred the Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station, alongside firefighters and medical responders, into action at the intersection of Navajo and Ottawa Roads.
Initial investigations by deputies revealed that the collision occurred when Juan M. Rodriguez Mendoza, a 40-year-old Apple Valley local, rode his blue 2002 Yamaha YFM660 into the path of an oncoming silver 2016 Honda CR-V. Mendoza was met with an impact that would ultimately claim his life, despite swift transportation to the hospital and the diligent efforts of medical professionals. The Honda driver, a 58-year-old fellow resident, stayed on the scene, showing cooperation as the accident threw the otherwise quiet afternoon into disarray, with both the driver and two passengers of the Honda needing medical care as well due to the accident.
As the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Major Accident Investigative Team (M.A.I.T.) takes charge of unraveling the full circumstances of the deadly encounter, they are actively seeking additional witnesses who could provide essential details to aid their ongoing investigation. In an effort to leave no stone unturned, Deputy G. Dominguez from the Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station encourages members of the community with information to step forward by reaching out through various channels, including direct contact and anonymous tips through the We-Tip Hotline, as outlined in a statement released on various platforms, including the Nixle public notification service.
Those with vital information are urged to contact Deputy Dominguez at (760) 240-7400, or to remain anonymous, they can call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME.
