Teen Fatally Struck While Attempting To Cross 91 Freeway In Riverside
RIVERSIDE (CBSLA.com) — A teenager was killed Monday night while attempting to cross the 91 Freeway in Riverside.
The accident occurred around 10 p.m. just east of Tyler Street, the California Highway Patrol said.
According to a law enforcement source, 16-year-old Roberto Garcia got into a fight with a friend while sitting in a car at the Galleria at Tyler. Garcia then exited the vehicle, ran across the westbound lanes of the 91 Freeway and hopped over the center divider.
He was struck in the slow lane on the eastbound side by a 2013 Mercedes driven by 23-year-old John Martinez approximately 65-78 mph.
Garcia, identified as a junior at Arlington High School, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The source told CBS2/KCAL9's Tom Wait he was likely trying to get home as he lives in the housing track across the eastbound side of the freeway.
Crisis counselors were on campus at Arlington High School Tuesday.
"I am so sorry to have to tell you this news," Principal Betsy Schmechel said in a statement. "Roberto and his family are in my heart and in my prayers, as well as all of you."
The incident was under investigation.