2 dead after suspected drunk driver hits group of cyclists, drags victim a mile in Montclair hit-and-run, witnesses say

MONTCLAIR, Calif. (KABC) — A suspected drunken driver hit a group of cyclists during a Halloween ride in Montclair Saturday night, killing two people and dragging down one victim before fleeing, according to witnesses.

The incident occurred shortly before 11 p.m. Saturday at the intersection of Kingsley Street and Tudor Avenue, according to the Montclair Police Department.

Around thirty people were riding bicycles when a driver suspected of being drunk hit several of them and fled. Witnesses say the group was on a self-coordinated Halloween ride.

The driver continued on his way after hitting the cyclists, dragging the second victim for at least a kilometer, according to witnesses. The suspect then abandoned his blood-stained car and fled.

A cyclist died instantly. Two other people were taken to hospital, where one died of his injuries, police said. The other rider was seriously injured but his condition is stable.

Just hours after the deadly collision, police found the driver at his home near the scene. Valentin Alberto Rodriguez, 38, was arrested on suspicion of several charges, including driving under the influence.

Rodriguez now faces several felonies, including hit-and-run and intoxicated manslaughter.

Winni Mercado lives nearby and said she heard the aftermath of the accident; relatives crying and lamenting over the body of a victim on the sidewalk.

“It was just horrible. It was just horrible. I know I’ll never get that sound out of my head. I just feel that pain,” she said.

Neighbors and relatives are in mourning.

“My heart breaks for you. I can’t understand or imagine what they’re going through right now…for something that was so innocent. Just kids having fun. My prayers are with them,” Mercado said.

Anyone with further information about the collision is asked to contact the Montclair Police Department at (909) 21-4771.