Bakersfield, CA (September 7, 2026) – According to the Bakersfield Police Department report, a man was killed after a vehicle fleeing from a high-speed pursuit struck him on Airport Drive early on Saturday morning, September 5. The crash occurred around 1:30 a.m. near Olive Drive.
Officers were pursuing two men in a vehicle after it allegedly fled from officers near Clover Mountain Ct and Pine Meadow Drive. Spike strips were placed along southbound Airport Drive in an attempt to stop or slow the vehicle. The driver, identified as 20-year-old Gabriel Lopez, reportedly tried to avoid the spike strip, lost control, and struck the man, who was on the sidewalk. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
Lopez and 21-year-old Isaiah Andrade fled after the crash but were later taken into custody and treated at a hospital. Lopez was booked on suspicion of second-degree murder, evading officers, and conspiracy, while Andrade faces charges related to evading officers, conspiracy, gang activity, and firearms. The victim’s identity is pending release by the Kern County Coroner.
We stand with those affected and wish them comfort and healing.
What Are the Risks of a Vehicle Leaving the Roadway?
A vehicle that loses control can leave the travel lanes and enter areas where pedestrians may be present. A collision with a person can cause severe or fatal injuries because pedestrians have little protection from the force of a moving vehicle.
High-speed driving can make it harder for a driver to maintain control or respond to sudden changes in the roadway. Drivers should maintain safe speeds, remain attentive, and avoid actions that can increase the risk of losing control.
