(San Pedro, CA) Jonathan Ruiz, who allegedly killed David Heard, 39 from Murrieta, is now charged with a DUI, murder and several sentence-enhancing great bodily injury allegations. Ruiz is slated to be arraigned today on second-degree murder with other offenses.
On July 24th, at around 7 a.m., Jonathan Ruiz allegedly drove past an intersection of Rancho California Road and Riesling Court in Temecula and hit Heard while he was crossing the intersection. He also triggered three vehicles leading to a collision.
Patrol deputies and Paramedics came to the scene of the collision and pronounced Heard deceased. Two passengers from one of the vehicles were also taken to a hospital and are recovering.
Jonathan Ruiz is now scheduled to appear in Southwest Justice Center before the Supreme Court Judge Judith Clark. He is also held near Byrd Detention Center with a lieu bail of $1 million dollars.
Sheriff Sergeant B, Joseph Ruiz confirmed that allegedly, Jonathan did not attempt to flee and escaped from injuries. Debuts did confirm that he was under the influence and taken into custody without incident.
No other information was released regarding the details of the collisions.
Analysis on Jonathan Ruiz Charged with Murder & DUI
Because this is a DUI case, investigators most likely reviewed the Public Offenses law. This law states many violations regarding drugs and alcohol. We know that Jonathan Ruiz was allegedly under the influence while striking David Heard. Investigators may have specifically looked into code 23152 (a) which states the following, drivers under the influence of any alcohol beverages are unlawful.
If he was addicted to drugs, investigators may have reviewed 23152 © which states one of the following rules, “It is unlawful for a person who is addicted to the use of any drug to drive a vehicle”. In California, medication is also a drug included in this code as well as out-of-counter medications.
In regards to murder, investigators may have reviewed the Of Crimes Against Person law code, 192. This law states the one of the following violations of what is considered a manslaughter without malice. Voluntarily in a heat of passing or a sudden quarrel, committing a lawful act with an unlawful manner, no caution or circumspection that can result in death. This may help investigators while determining why Ruiz struck the two teenagers despite alcohol in his system. Was it intentionally? Did he take out his anger by hitting those teenagers? There are many questions that investigators may want to look into.
Advice for the Family
If you have lost a loved one in this incident, staying in contact with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department investigation can help you receive more information from the investigation. You can request official reports when they become available to better understand the circumstances.
You may also consider speaking with a qualified legal professional experienced in pedestrian accident cases. They can help explain your options and guide you through next steps. In addition, seeking support from family, friends, or grief counseling services can provide comfort during this difficult time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
