48-Year-Old Bloomington Man Arrested after Rialto Fatal Wrong-Way Collision

RIALTO, CA (June 27, 2023) – Saturday evening, a wrong-way crash involving a DUI driver in Rialto claimed the life of Gregory Cruz.

Officers responded to the crash around 8:43 p.m. at the 300 block of West Santa Ana Avenue on June 24th.

Upon arrival, authorities learned that a westbound white Ford F-150 pickup crossed into the eastbound lanes of Santa Ana Avenue from Willow. As a result, the Ford collided with a white Chevrolet Lumina traveling in the opposite direction.

Responding firefighters transported the Chevrolet driver to a hospital for major injuries. Unfortunately, 59-year-old Gregory Cruz of Riverside succumbed to his injuries a short while later.

According to the investigators, the 48-year-old Ford driver, Jose Saavedra-Escoto from Bloomington, was suspected of driving under the influence. Paramedics also transported Saavedra-Escoto to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

Authorities ultimately booked Saavedra-Escoto into jail for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. His bail was set at $250,000.

Contact Traffic Sergeant Dan Smith at 909-644-6025 if you have additional information about the West Santa Avenue DUI crash.

Sweet James warm and sincerest sympathies go out to the friends and family of Gregory Cruz. May the loving memories of your loved one and the love of your family give you strength in the days ahead.

Losing a loved one in a DUI crash can have devastating effects on the emotional and financial well-being of those left behind. Let the wrongful death attorneys at Sweet James help you during this trying time. With 20 years of experience in the field, they know what it takes to help you win your case. All of them at Sweet James strongly believe each client’s case is unique and deserves full individual attention. They will fight to achieve the justice and compensation that you and your family deserve. Call them today at 1-800-900-0000 for a free and confidential case evaluation. They are available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week through email, text, and online chat.

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