A San Bernardino County sheriff’s deputy, Hector Cuevas Jr., tragically lost his life in a car accident during a chase on Monday, March 17. The pursuit began when deputies spotted a stolen vehicle in Victorville, being driven by 22-year-old Ryan Dwayne Turner Jr. Despite attempts to pull him over, Turner did not stop, leading to a high-speed chase.
During the pursuit, Deputy Cuevas collided with another vehicle. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene due to his injuries. The driver of the other vehicle, 23-year-old Marcelline Demyan, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment.
After the crash, Turner abandoned the stolen car but was later apprehended by law enforcement. He is facing multiple charges, including vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and evading police.
Sheriff Shannon Dicus described the incident as both tragic and horrific. He noted that Cuevas was a devoted family man survived by his wife, two children, parents, and siblings. The sheriff emphasized the deputy’s commitment to serving his community.
Witness accounts suggest that Demyan was hit while making a left turn at a traffic light, and she did not hear Cuevas’ vehicle approach, as there were no sirens or warning sounds. The impact of the crash caused her car to collide with a power box, resulting in a temporary power outage in the surrounding area.
California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed deep sorrow over Cuevas’ passing, extending condolences to his family and friends while highlighting the deputy’s dedication to public service. Cuevas had six years of law enforcement experience and spent the last three years with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, previously serving at the Upland Police Department.
