Driver Dragged Cyclist for a Mile Before Hitting Another Bicyclist in Montclair

Police say a suspected drunk driver dragged a cyclist for approximately one mile before killing two people and injuring two others on Saturday night.

The crash occurred near the intersection of Kingsley Street and Tudor Avenue in Montclair. A group of roughly 30 bicyclists was riding when Valentin Alberto Rodriguez, 38, struck them. One victim, identified as Robert Umanzo, 25, died at the scene. A second cyclist died of her injuries at a hospital. Two other riders sustained injuries.

Rodriguez abandoned his vehicle and fled the scene. Officers located him at his nearby home just hours later. He now faces charges including DUI, causing injury or death, felony hit-and-run, and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.

The Inland Empire bicycle community is mourning the loss. Cristina Flores, a mourner, described the group as a tight-knit family. “It’s still hard to believe,” Flores said. “More than anything, we feel for the family and the bike community, as well. We are all a big family.”

Olivia Gonzales, a friend of Umanzo, recalled his personality. “If you knew Bobby, you knew he was a good spirit,” Gonzales said. “(He was) full of love and dancing around and enjoying everyone’s vibe.”

A memorial is forming at the crash site. Flores expressed frustration that the driver did not stop to check on the victims. “It’s hard to believe someone would do that and not stop to help him,” she said. “Didn’t stop to call the police or see if they are OK. There has to be a change.” The identity of the second deceased cyclist has not been released.