In a recent press conference, San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus identified the officer tragically killed during a high-speed pursuit crash as Hector Cuevas Jr., a deputy with six years of service. The incident occurred when the suspect, Ryan Dwayne Turner Jr, 22, of San Bernardino, failed to yield while driving a reported stolen vehicle.
The exact cause of the collision remains unclear. Deputy Cuevas, 36, collided with another vehicle near the intersection of El Evado and Seneca roads. The impact of the crash was significant, splitting the patrol cruiser in half and leading to a disruption in power lines. Along with Cuevas, a female driver in a black sedan involved in the accident was injured and has since been hospitalized. Her condition remains unknown.
Deputy Cuevas, a member of the Sheriffs Victorville Station, died on site. Aerial images showed his body covered with an American flag as officials prepared to transport his remains.
Deputy Cuevas is survived by his wife, two children, his parents, and siblings. Sheriff Dicus reflected on the fallen officer as a dedicated family man and a commendable law enforcement officer.
Following the incident, the main suspect, Mr. Turner, was taken into custody and faces charges of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and evading a police officer resulting in serious injury or death. Mr. Turner allegedly has a previous record, including an instance of fleeing and injuring a deputy. Officials are requesting that Mr. Turner be held without bail.
In response to the tragic incident, Governor Gavin Newsom expressed deep condolences to Deputy Cuevas family, friends, and colleagues, stating his service and dedication were remarkable. The governor has ordered flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space to be flown at half-staff in honor of Deputy Cuevas.
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