Rancho Cucamonga, CA (August 7, 2025) – Emergency responders from Rancho Cucamonga rushed to assist a teenage girl critically injured in a hit-and-run collision near Etiwanda High School early Wednesday morning. The crash took place at approximately 7:31 a.m. at the intersection of Cherry Ave and Walnut St, just before the start of the school day.
According to the Fontana Police Department, the 16-year-old victim was riding her bicycle to school when she was struck by a white Ford Ranger pickup truck. The driver failed to stop at the scene, leaving the injured teen behind as he fled the area. Paramedics quickly arrived and rendered care at the scene before transporting the girl to a nearby hospital. Authorities confirmed she was in critical condition.
Later that same day, law enforcement located the suspected vehicle in the city of Montclair. Investigators identified the driver as 29-year-old Alfredo Garcia Venegas, who was arrested in connection with the incident. Fontana police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Officials from the Chaffey Joint Union High School District expressed their support for the victim and her family, acknowledging the serious nature of her injuries and pledging to remain in contact as she continues treatment. Roads in the immediate area were reopened by 9:30 a.m.
Our thoughts remain with the student and her loved ones during this deeply challenging time.
Bicycle Accidents in California
Bicycle accidents involving teens, especially near school zones, continue to raise serious concerns throughout California. In this incident, the combination of early-morning traffic, a school commute, and a fleeing driver tragically resulted in severe consequences for a young member of the community. The fact that the victim was critically injured while on her way to school underscores the need for enhanced safety measures in student commuting areas.
California’s traffic infrastructure, especially in suburban cities like Rancho Cucamonga, presents particular challenges for cyclists. While bike lanes and crossing zones have expanded in recent years, interactions between motor vehicles and vulnerable road users remain a high-risk factor—particularly during peak morning hours. In this case, the location near Cherry Ave and Walnut St is a known route for students headed to Etiwanda High School, making driver vigilance especially important.
The arrest of the hit-and-run suspect offers some closure in terms of legal accountability, but the emotional and physical toll on the injured teen and her family will be long-lasting. Crashes of this nature also disrupt school communities, with many students and staff directly impacted by the trauma.
Local advocates and safety officials may use this case as a catalyst for additional safety improvements around school zones, including increased signage, visibility upgrades, and enforcement during student commute times. Educational outreach reminding drivers of their responsibilities when sharing the road with cyclists is also crucial.
If your loved one has been hurt in a bicycle accident caused by a fleeing or reckless driver, it’s important to know that legal and medical support are available. Working with knowledgeable professionals can help victims recover physically, emotionally, and financially in the aftermath of such devastating incidents.
For families affected by pedestrian or bicycle crashes, understanding your rights and seeking guidance early can make all the difference. Resources exist to help navigate the path forward, especially when dealing with ongoing medical needs or disrupted education due to injury.
If someone you care about has suffered in a similar situation, don’t wait to get help. Local Accident Reports is here to support families across California.
Have questions about your rights after a hit-and-run? Our team at Local Accident Reports understands the trauma of sudden, serious accidents. We provide access to critical resources, legal connections, and recovery guidance tailored to families dealing with injuries from traffic collisions. Let us help you find clarity and direction—reach out today to begin your next steps.
