A late-night crossing on Foothill Boulevard in Rialto turned fatal early Monday when a vehicle struck and killed a 42-year-old man from Fontana, according to authorities. Rialto Fire paramedics pronounced the man dead at the scene, and police say he had been walking across the street outside a marked crosswalk when he was hit. The driver stayed at the scene, and Rialto’s Major Accident Investigation Team has launched a full inquiry. Officials are holding back the victim’s name until his family can be notified.
In a news release, the Rialto Police Department said officers were called to Foothill Boulevard at Eucalyptus Avenue at about 12:01 a.m. and identified the driver as 33-year-old Paulo Meza of Rialto, according to the Rialto Police Department. Investigators said that, based on what they know so far, alcohol or drug impairment does not appear to be a factor for Meza. The department asked anyone with information to contact Traffic Sergeant Justin Breen at (909) 835-9965 or submit an anonymous tip to WeTip, referencing case number 932602596.
Local coverage noted that as of Monday morning the man had been publicly identified only as a Fontana resident, and that paramedics found him unresponsive and pronounced him dead shortly after arriving. As reported by CBS News Los Angeles, investigators said the man was crossing outside a designated crosswalk when he was struck.
Foothill Boulevard safety concerns
Foothill Boulevard has seen its share of deadly crashes in Rialto in recent years, raising ongoing questions about safety for people on foot along the busy corridor. As outlined by the Rialto Police Department, a fatal hit-and-run at Foothill Boulevard and Pepper Avenue in April 2025 also brought in the city’s Major Accident Investigation Team and highlighted how crucial community tips and surveillance footage can be for investigators.
Investigation and how to help
The investigation into Monday’s collision remains active, and police say the victim’s name will not be released until the county coroner completes next-of-kin notifications. Anyone who saw the crash, arrived in the aftermath, or has relevant video footage is urged to call Traffic Sergeant Justin Breen at (909) 835-9965 or report information to WeTip, using case number 932602596.
