(Jurupa Valley, CA) A man was killed early Saturday morning, February 21, after being struck by a fleeing driver in a Van Buren Boulevard accident.
Riverside County Sheriff’s Department deputies responded just after midnight to reports of a pedestrian collision at Van Buren Boulevard and Jurupa Road. When deputies arrived, they found a man lying in the roadway with fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Riverside County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Sean Heiderich, 22, of Los Angeles. Authorities did not release additional details about why he was in the roadway at the time of the crash. That information remained unclear as the investigation continued.
Sheriff officials said the motorist who struck Heiderich fled the scene before deputies arrived. A search of the surrounding area did not locate the driver. The suspect vehicle was described as a sedan with major front-end damage, though investigators did not confirm its color.
Van Buren Boulevard between Jurupa Road and Limonite Avenue was temporarily closed while deputies documented evidence and cleared the roadway. Officials did not announce any arrests. The investigation into the Van Buren Boulevard accident remained active as detectives worked to identify and locate the driver.
Anyone with information about the fatal hit-and-run was urged to contact Deputy Vawter at 951-776-1099.
Analysis on the Van Buren Boulevard Accident
When a fatal hit-and-run occurs on a city roadway, investigators review traffic safety laws to understand what factors may have contributed, without assigning fault prematurely. These reviews often focus on pedestrian location, driver attentiveness, and the legal duty to remain at the scene.
Because the driver allegedly fled, authorities will closely examine the Hit-and-Run Statute. This law requires drivers involved in collisions that result in injury or death to stop immediately, provide identifying information, and render reasonable assistance. Leaving the scene can delay emergency care and significantly complicate the investigation.
If pedestrian positioning becomes relevant, investigators may also consider the Pedestrian Crossing Law. This law requires pedestrians crossing outside a marked crosswalk to yield the right of way to vehicles that pose an immediate hazard. Officers often review visibility and traffic flow to understand timing.
Officials may further evaluate the Basic Speed Law if speed is determined to be a factor. This law requires drivers to operate at speeds reasonable for traffic, visibility, and roadway conditions. These combined statutes help guide the sheriff’s department’s evaluation of the Van Buren Boulevard accident as detectives continue gathering evidence.
Support for the Family
If you are related to Sean Heiderich or are supporting his loved ones, staying in contact with investigators can help you receive updates and request official sheriff’s and coroner reports when they become available.
You may also consider speaking with a qualified legal professional to better understand your options after a fatal hit-and-run. Emotional support from family members, friends, or grief counseling services can also be important during a sudden and painful loss.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
