Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash in Apple Valley Desert Left Two Children Dead

SAN BERNARDINO, CA (July 18, 2022) – Saturday night, a hit-and-run ATV crash claimed the lives of Jacob Martinez and Christina Bird.

The crash happened on July 2nd at around 9:00 p.m. at the Stoddard Valley OHV Recreation Area.

According to police, Martinez and Bird were riding a 2019 TaoTao ATV, when they were struck by a 2021 Razor Turbo S or S4 UTV.  12-year-old Martinez died at the scene, despite life-saving efforts.

11-year-old Bird was rushed to St. Mary’s Hospital and later was airlifted to Loma Linda Children’s Hospital. While there, she was pronounced brain dead and was later taken off of life support.

The driver of the UTV stayed at the scene for a while but later fled. Authorities later arrested the suspect, Edgar Ivan Galindo Diaz, after he turned himself in.

Meanwhile, friends and family members have organized GoFundMe campaigns for both Martinez and Bird, to support medical and funeral expenses.

The team at Sweet James extends their warm and sincerest sympathies to the friends and family of Jacob Martinez and Christina Bird. May the memories of your loved ones give you strength in the days ahead.

Losing a loved one due to someone’s recklessness leaves a lasting impact on those left behind. Let the wrongful death lawyers at Sweet James help you during this trying time. They have 20 years of experience in the field, and they will fight by your side to achieve justice and maximum compensation. They strongly believe that each client’s case is unique which is why we give it our full individual attention. Call they today at (800) 975-3435 to arrange your free and confidential case evaluation. To request a police report, click here.

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