Montclair, California — A Halloween night cycling event ended in tragedy after a suspected drunk driver allegedly struck a group of around 30 cyclists, killing two riders, including a 30-year-old mother, and reportedly dragging one victim for more than a mile.
The victims were identified as Robert Garcia Umanzor, 25, and Rumor Ortiz, 30. Authorities said the collision happened around 10:39 p.m. Saturday as the group rode east on Kingsley Street near Tudor Avenue in Montclair.
A 38-year-old man was arrested in connection with the crash and faces multiple charges, including allegations involving driving under the influence and vehicular manslaughter. Meanwhile, family members, friends and fellow cyclists are mourning the two victims.
What Happened During the Halloween Night Bike Ride?
According to the reported details, the group was riding together when a vehicle allegedly plowed into the cyclists.
The impact killed Umanzor and Ortiz. One of the victims was reportedly dragged for more than a mile following the collision, adding to the severity of the incident.
The crash has raised renewed concerns about the dangers cyclists face when sharing roads with motor vehicles, particularly when a driver is suspected of being impaired.
Authorities identified the driver as Valentin Alberto Rodriguez, 38, who was arrested at his nearby Montclair home early Sunday.
Police said Rodriguez was suspected of driving under the influence, felony hit-and-run and gross vehicular manslaughter. The charges are allegations, and the case will proceed through the legal system.
Who Were the Two Cyclists Killed in the Crash?
The victims’ identities have brought additional attention to the loss experienced by their families and the local cycling community.
Ortiz, 30, was remembered by friends as a kindhearted person who brought happiness to the people around her. Her death was particularly devastating to her family, with her brother sharing an emotional tribute on Instagram.
“I honestly thought I would be the first of my siblings to make [it] to heaven. Rumor, I wish [I] had more time with you, sister, but God’s timing,” he wrote.
“I was trulely [sic] blessed to have a sister like you. Watch over me from heaven time to time … let me know you loved me; meet you in the next life,” he added.
The tribute reflected the family’s grief and the suddenness of the loss. Ani Fine, a friend of Ortiz’s, also spoke about the impact she had on those around her.
“She was kindhearted. She was happy all the time. She brought extreme joy to the group,” Fine told KTLA.
Umanzor was similarly remembered as someone who enjoyed being around people and valued his relationships with family and friends.
Families and Friends Gather for Emotional Vigil
About 100 people gathered at the crash scene Monday to honor the two cyclists and remember their lives. Among those attending was Yoly Shively, Umanzor’s aunt, who described her nephew as fun-loving and sociable.
“He just loved being around people. I know that, and he just loved our family. He was so sociable, I know, with all his friends … Just the way it happened is a tragedy and a message to just be careful, for sure, driving,” Shively told the news outlet.
She also expressed frustration over the circumstances surrounding the crash.
“Let’s get these drinkers off the road,” Shively added.
The gathering offered relatives, friends and fellow cyclists an opportunity to grieve together and remember the two people whose lives were cut short.
Driver Faces Multiple Charges After Arrest
Rodriguez was arrested early Sunday at his home in Montclair, according to police.
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The reported charges include driving under the influence causing injury or death, driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher causing injury or death, felony hit-and-run involving death or serious injury, and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
The allegations relate to the deadly collision involving the cycling group. A criminal charge is not a conviction, and the allegations must be addressed through the legal process.
Further information about the investigation and any subsequent court proceedings may clarify additional details about the circumstances of the crash.
Fundraiser Set Up for Umanzor’s Funeral
As the families cope with the loss, Umanzor’s relatives have established a GoFundMe fundraiser to help cover funeral expenses.
The fundraiser explains that the family is grieving while also dealing with financial hardship, making support especially important as arrangements are made.
“Robert’s family is grieving and also dealing with family hardship at the same time,” the fundraiser read. “With funeral arrangements happening soon, support is needed now to help ease some of the immediate financial burden during an incredibly painful time.”
The fundraising effort reflects the practical challenges that can accompany an unexpected death, even as relatives and friends focus on remembering the victims.
The deaths of Umanzor and Ortiz have left their loved ones and cycling community facing a painful loss. As the investigation continues, their families are remembering the people they knew and loved while seeking answers after the fatal crash.
What are your thoughts on road safety for cyclists and preventing suspected impaired-driving crashes? Share your views in the comments below.
