(Long Beach, CA) A man identified as Raul Augustin Gallopa, 35, was fatally injured in an East Fourth Street collision in Long Beach earlier this month, authorities said.
According to the Long Beach Police Department, the crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. on October 6 near East Fourth Street and Bonito Avenue. Preliminary reports indicate that Gallopa rode on a bicycle east on Fourth Street. As he attempted to turn north on Bonito Avenue, a 2021 BMW 330i struck him at a high rate of speed.
Officers arrived to find Gallopa unconscious in the roadway. Paramedics transported him to a nearby hospital in critical condition but passed away two days later, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Police identified the driver as Ahkeyajahnique Owens, 24, of Long Beach. She remained at the scene and was arrested on suspicion of reckless driving. It remains unclear whether criminal charges have been filed.
Anyone with information is urged to contact LBPD Collision Investigation Detective Ashley van Holland at 562-570-7355. Anonymous tips can also be made through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or lacrimestoppers.org.
We extend our deepest condolences to Gallopa’s family.
Overview on the East Fourth Street Collision
Investigators are likely reviewing whether excessive speed or unsafe driving contributed to this fatal crash.
If speed played a role leading to the crash, the Basic Speed Law may apply. It prohibits driving faster than is safe for conditions, regardless of the posted limit. When vehicles move too quickly through neighborhood intersections, the risk to cyclists and pedestrians increases significantly.
Because the driver was reportedly arrested for reckless behavior, the Reckless Driving Law could also be relevant. It makes it unlawful to operate a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people or property. A conviction under this statute can lead to severe penalties, especially when serious injury or death results.
Since Raul Augustin Gallopa was riding a bicycle, the Bicycle Safety Law may be reviewed. This law grants bicyclists the same rights and responsibilities as vehicle operators and requires motorists to share the road safely. Compliance with these protections is central to the ongoing investigation into the East Fourth Street collision.
Support for Gallopa’s Family
If you are related to Gallopa, you may wish to stay in touch with the LBPD Collision Investigation Detail for updates on the case. You can seek compensation for his death under a Wrongful Death case.
When you are ready, you could reach out to an attorney who has experience with bicycle-related fatality cases. They can guide you through both the investigative and civil processes. Above all, take time to care for yourself and those close to you. Grief counseling and community support resources in Long Beach can offer comfort and practical help during this painful time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
