Rodriguez charged after Montclair crash kills two cyclists

Valentin Alberto Rodriguez, 38, faces felony hit-and-run and gross vehicular manslaughter charges after a vehicle struck a group of cyclists in Montclair. Montclair police arrested the local resident on October 25. He is accused of leaving the scene of the crash, which killed two riders and injured others.

The collision occurred on the night of October 24 at the intersection of Kingsley Street and Tudor Avenue. Police reports indicate a vehicle traveling west hit a pack of approximately 30 bicyclists moving east on Kingsley Street. The impact resulted in the deaths of Robert Garcia Umanzor, 25, a Pomona resident, and Rumor Ortiz, 30. Coroner's offices in San Bernardino and Los Angeles counties confirmed the deaths this week.

The incident prompted a memorial ride through a Riverside neighborhood on the night of October 28. Around 30 cyclists departed from Myra Lynn Park to honor the victims. Participants pedaled through the streets, responding to a street-side memorial that accumulated candles, balloons, and signs from the local cycling community.

Rodrigewas charged with driving under the influence, causing injury or death, felony hit-and-run involving death or permanent serious injury, and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. These charges reflect the severity of the accident and the subsequent departure from the scene.

Family members have launched fundraising efforts to cover funeral costs. A GoFundMe account for Ortiz has nearly reached its $9,000 goal. The description for that account notes that she found her passion in cycling and gained many great memories and friends. Another account has been set up for Garcia Umanzor's expenses.