Fiery Crash That Killed 2 Near 215 Freeway: Witnesses Sought

PERRIS, CA — Two people were killed Monday in a fiery two-truck crash in Perris, and additional witnesses are sought.

The wreck happened about 11:45 a.m. at the intersection of Harley Knox Boulevard and Patterson Avenue, just east of Interstate 215, according to Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department.

Rafael Navarro Duarte, 68, and Maria Navarro, 69, died at the scene after their Ford F-150 and a Chevrolet Blazer collided.

According to a Riverside County Sheriff's Department news release, the Chevy driver — who was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance at the time of the crash — tried to flee on foot but was captured near the scene.

The driver is expected to face murder charges, according to the sheriff's department.

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash and who has not been interviewed is asked to call Deputy Kiebach at the Perris Sheriff’s Station: 951-210-1074.