MyNewsLA reports that a 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of DUI on Monday in Palm Desert on Monday, April 10. As of Wednesday, April 12, that man is free on a $75,000 bond.
According to a statement issued by Sgt. Don Olson of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, 21-year-old Christian Ruvalcaba of Palm Desert was arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run, vehicular manslaughter, and driving under the influence, causing injury.
Sgt. Olson said that Riverside County Sheriff’s Department deputies responded to a call received at approximately 9:30 p.m. on Monday of a collision at the intersection of Highway 111 and Deep Canyon Drive.
According to eyewitnesses, a Honda CRV struck a 34-year-old male pedestrian before fleeing the crash scene. Deputies arrived to find the pedestrian in the roadway, who had suffered major injuries. Sheriff’s deputies and paramedics arriving on the scene immediately began administering aid. The victim was rushed to Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs. Unfortunately, despite all life-saving attempts made by doctors and medical staff, the Palm Desert man died due to his injuries.
Sgt. Olson said that deputies later found the suspect’s vehicle in Beaumont. It was determined that Ruvalcaba was allegedly under the influence of drugs and was placed under arrest.
Deputies transported Ruvalcaba to the John J. Benoit Detention Center in Indio on Tuesday. A judge set Ruvalcaba’s bond at $75,000. Ruvalcaba posted bond and was released on Wednesday. He is due to appear in court on July 17.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department asks anyone with any information about the fatal crash to contact Deputy Claro Sanchez at the Palm Desert Station at (760) 836-1600. Those wishing to remain anonymous may do so through Crime Stoppers at (800) 782-7463.