Date: March 17, 2025
Location: Victorville, California
Incident Overview:
On March 17, 2025, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Hector Cuevas Jr., 36, tragically lost his life during a high-speed pursuit in Victorville. The incident occurred around 11:00 a.m. when deputies identified a suspected stolen vehicle and initiated a chase. Deputy Cuevas, in pursuit of the suspect, collided with another vehicle at an intersection before striking a light pole. The impact was so severe that his patrol car split into two parts.
Deputy Hector Cuevas Jr.:
Deputy Cuevas was a dedicated law enforcement officer with six years of service. He had been assigned to the Victorville Station for the past three years and previously served with the Upland Police Department. Colleagues remember him as a committed professional who was passionate about serving his community.
Suspect Information:
The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Ryan Turner, failed to yield when deputies attempted a traffic stop, leading to the pursuit. After the crash, Turner fled on foot but was apprehended shortly thereafter. He faces multiple charges, including vehicular manslaughter and evading a peace officer causing death.
Community Response:
The tragic loss of Deputy Cuevas has deeply affected the Victorville community and the broader San Bernardino County. Residents and fellow officers have expressed their condolences and are organizing vigils to honor his memory. Governor Gavin Newsom also issued a statement honoring Deputy Cuevas’s service and sacrifice.
Investigation:
The California Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the crash, standard protocol for incidents involving law enforcement officers. Preliminary reports indicate that Deputy Cuevas was operating his patrol vehicle with lights and sirens activated at the time of the collision.
Funeral Arrangements:
Funeral services for Deputy Cuevas are pending, with details to be announced by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. A memorial fund has been established to support his family during this difficult time.
