Romoland, CA (June 9, 2026) – An 18-year-old man died on Sunday evening after a crash involving three off-highway vehicles on Gunther Road, south of McIntyre Road in Riverside County. The collision occurred at approximately 7:05 PM on Sunday, June 7. Alcohol and drugs are not suspected as factors.
The crash involved a 2024 Can-Am and two Yamaha all-terrain vehicles. For reasons still under investigation, all three vehicles collided. Ivan Zenteno, an 18-year-old resident of Homeland, was riding one of the Yamahas when he was ejected and struck the roadway.
Zenteno was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency units. No other injuries were reported in the initial account of the accident.
The collision remains under active investigation, and witnesses are asked to contact the appropriate tip line. Our sincerest condolences go out to Ivan Zenteno’s family and all those who knew him.
What Are the Common Risks Associated With Off-Highway Vehicle Crashes?
Off-highway vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles and recreational side-by-sides pose distinct risks compared to standard passenger cars. These vehicles are often designed for uneven terrain and lack many of the safety features found in road-registered vehicles, including seat belts on some models, reinforced frames, and airbags. Riders are more exposed to the surrounding environment, which raises the likelihood of ejection in a collision.
Ejection is one of the most serious outcomes in an off-road crash. When a rider is thrown from the vehicle, contact with the ground or other hard surfaces often results in life-threatening harm, even at moderate speeds. Helmets and protective gear can reduce the severity of injuries, but they cannot fully offset the dangers of high-energy ejections.
Multi-vehicle off-road crashes add another layer of risk. When two or more vehicles collide in close quarters, especially at speed, the force involved can be unpredictable, and the chances of a rider being caught between vehicles or thrown increase significantly.