Teen Driver Deliberately Mowed Down Cyclists In OC, Police Allege

HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA — A male juvenile was arrested Tuesday night in connection with a series of intentional hit-and-run incidents in Huntington Beach, one of which involved the death of a 70-year-old man, authorities said Wednesday.

The boy, who was not identified by police, was booked into Orange County Juvenile Hall on one count of homicide and two counts of assault with a deadly weapon.

He was arrested soon after his vehicle was found in the 6000 block of Warner Avenue in Huntington Beach, authorities said.

“I would like to commend the detectives who investigated these terrible crimes for their tireless work in apprehending a dangerous suspect,” Huntington Beach Chief of Police Eric Parra said. “I would also like to thank the public for their tips and support as we searched for the perpetrator. The safety of our City is our top priority, and I want to reassure the community that they are safe.”

Authorities were called to area of Brad Drive and Edwards Street at 10:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 10, in response to a reported hit-and-run.

The adult victim told police that he was riding his bike down Edwards Street when a vehicle intentionally sideswiped him before fleeing the scene, police said. The victim was treated for minor injuries and was not identified by authorities.

While officers were investigating the initial collision, HBPD received reports of a downed bicyclist near Heil Avenue and Springdale Street at about 10:45 p.m.

When officers arrived, they found an adult bicyclist suffering major injuries. Despite efforts of paramedics, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. He was later identified as 70-year-old Huntington Beach resident Steven Gonzales.

While HBPD officers investigated both incidents, they received reports from a third adult victim who said he was riding his bicycle in the crosswalk at Warner Avenue and Edwards Street at about 10 p.m. when he was struck by a vehicle.

The vehicle fled from the scene, leaving the victim with minor injuries.

The vehicle was described as a black Toyota four-door sedan with "significant" front passenger-side bumper damage.

The investigation is still ongoing, and residents with information related to these crimes were urged to call the HBPD WeTip Hotline at (714) 375-5066. Additionally, please contact the OC Crime Stoppers at (855) TIP-OCCS (1-855-847-6227) to remain anonymous.