A 19-year-old man from Riverside, California, identified as Issac Blackhorse Garcia, is facing charges after allegedly running over and killing a pregnant teenager on February 2. The incident occurred around 11:45 p.m. on a Sunday night, according to local law enforcement. Witnesses reported seeing the aftermath of the alleged hit-and-run, with the pregnant victim lying in the street. The victim’s family was captured on a neighbor’s doorbell camera rushing to her aid as Garcia reportedly fled the scene.
The victim was rushed to a local hospital with severe injuries, where she later succumbed to her injuries. Medical staff managed to deliver her baby, who is currently in critical condition. The Riverside Police Department, in a press release, confirmed that the suspect’s vehicle was located in Moreno Valley and the driver was taken into custody.
During the investigation into the teenager’s death, it was discovered that Garcia had been involved in a sexual relationship with the victim’s underage sister. According to the Riverside Police Department, family members confronted Garcia when he dropped the sister off at home. It is alleged that Garcia then sped away, hitting the pregnant teenager with his car.
Footage of the incident, obtained by Los Angeles ABC affiliate KABC, shows the victim’s family rushing to her and screaming in horror. A neighbor, Miriam Betamen, recounted to KABC how a car had sped through the area. “We saw a girl that was right on the street, just laying flat,” she said.
The victim’s baby remains in critical condition at a local children’s hospital. Residents told KABC that the victim’s mother was often seen walking around the neighborhood. Christopher Garrett, a local resident, recalled seeing the victim and one of her relatives the day before the tragedy. “Her and her sister, and they were like laughing,” he said.
Garcia was arrested and is currently being held at the Robert Presley Detention Center without bail. He faces charges of murder, hit-and-run resulting in death, and unlawful sex with a minor.