A late-night drive in Jurupa Valley turned deadly early Saturday when a 22-year-old Los Angeles man was struck and killed in a hit-and-run on Van Buren Boulevard, authorities said. Deputies found him lying in the roadway near Jurupa Road just after midnight, and Riverside County Fire Department paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene. The Riverside County coroner later identified him as Sean Heiderich, and investigators say the driver who hit him took off and has not been found.
Scene and investigation
Riverside County Sheriff’s deputies were called out shortly after midnight and arrived to find Heiderich suffering major trauma, according to CBS Los Angeles. Paramedics could not save him and declared him dead at the scene.
Deputies searched the area but did not locate the driver. Investigators believe the suspect was behind the wheel of a sedan of unknown color that would have significant front-end damage. While they documented the scene and collected evidence, authorities temporarily shut down Van Buren Boulevard between Jurupa Road and Limonite Avenue.
Victim identified, tips requested
The Press-Enterprise reported that the coroner identified the victim as 22-year-old Sean Heiderich of Los Angeles. Investigators also asked anyone with information about the crash or the fleeing driver to contact Deputy Vawter at 951-776-1099.
As of the latest updates, no arrests had been announced and officials had not released any information about a possible suspect, or whether alcohol or drugs might have played a role in the collision. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office said it would withhold further details while the investigation remains active.
Legal stakes of fleeing a crash
Under California law, leaving the scene of a crash that causes injury or death is not just heartless, it is a felony-level problem. Vehicle Code 20001 requires any driver involved in such a collision to stop, provide identifying information, and offer reasonable assistance to anyone who is hurt. The statute also lays out potential prison time and other penalties for those who take off instead, according to California Legislative Information.
Investigators are still urging the public to step forward. Anyone who may have seen the crash, noticed a sedan with fresh front-end damage, or has other information is asked to call the Jurupa Valley Station at (951) 955-2600 or reach Deputy Vawter directly at 951-776-1099, as reported by The Press-Enterprise.
