Manuel Leon Dead, Ruperto Lopez Arrested after Hit-and-Run Crash on Cool Valley Road [Valley Center, CA]
27-Year-Old Construction Worker Pronounced Dead after Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Crash near Cole Grade Road
VALLEY CENTER, CA (April 22, 2024) – Wednesday, Manuel Leon died and Ruperto Lopez was arrested after a hit-and-run on Cool Valley Road.
California Highway Patrol officers arrived around 7:00 a.m., at the 14500 block of Cool Valley Road, just east of Cole Grade Road.
Officers say a construction flagman was directing traffic in the area. For reasons under investigation, the driver of a tan Toyota Corolla struck the victim. Upon impact, the driver immediately fled the scene without rendering aid or contacting authorities.
Responding emergency personnel airlifted the victim to a nearby hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. Crews later identified the deceased victim as 27-year-old Leon, of Fallbrook.
On Thursday, authorities managed to arrest the runaway driver. Officials booked Ruperto Jesus Lopez into the Vista Detention Facility for felony hit-and-run and several other charges.
Those who witnessed the fatal crash are encouraged to contact the local authorities as soon as possible. Once available, further details will be provided.
In this sorrowful time, the Sweet James team would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the victim.
At Sweet James, our personal injury and wrongful death attorneys understand that the legal issues impose challenges to those involved. Let us help you through the legal process so that you can focus on the welfare of your family. Call us today at 1-844-363-7713 to arrange a free and confidential case evaluation.
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