Southern California man arrested for hit-and-run crash that killed his passenger

Police arrested a Southern California man who allegedly crashed his car while driving drunk and ran from the scene – leaving his passenger to die.

The Rialto Police Department said it was around 8:17 p.m. on Friday when a call came into the station reporting a single vehicle collision.

About 3 minutes later, officers arrived at the 500 block of West Merrill Avenue and found the passenger alone in the car with life-threatening injuries.

The officers tried to save her life with emergency first aid procedures but ultimately pronounced her dead at the scene at 8:25 p.m.

Police identified the passenger as 33-year-old Rachel Martin of Rialto.

As for the driver who fled – details are limited and police did not immediately say how long he remained at large, but he was eventually identified by witnesses and apprehended.

Officials identified the driver as 28-year-old Joshua Cardenas of Rialto and said he suffered only minor injuries from the crash.

According to the initial investigation, Cardenas was speeding in a white 2021 Ford Mustang, driving over 85 mph eastbound on Merrill Avenue. 

Cardenas lost control of his vehicle when he passed through the intersection on Cactus Avenue and crashed into multiple trees, eventually coming to rest in the westbound lanes.

While the investigation is ongoing, police said there is evidence that Cardenas was driving under the influence of alcohol when he crashed.

In addition, the department’s release said “speed is believed to be a factor.”

Officers booked Cardenas into a San Bernardino County jail for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated with a $100,000 bail.

The Rialto Police Department Major Accident Investigation Team is conducting the investigation and said anyone who may have information about this incident can contact Traffic Sergeant Dan Smith at 909-644-6025. 

Witnesses can also anonymously report information through WeTip at 800-782-7463 and reference case #932502122.