A San Bernardino County sheriff’s deputy was killed in a crash Monday morning while pursuing a suspect in a high-speed chase, authorities confirmed.
The deputy, 36-year-old Hector Cuevas Jr., was a six-year veteran of the department and had been stationed in Victorville for the last three years.
The suspect, 22-year-old Ryan Dwayne Turner Jr., has been taken into custody and will be booked on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and evading a peace officer causing death or serious injury, Sheriff Shannon Dicus announced.
A Dedicated Officer and Family Man
Cuevas, described as a “cop’s cop” by his colleagues, was a devoted husband and father. He previously served with the Upland Police Department and was well-known in the community, especially for his passion for high school football.
“Hector is the type of law enforcement officer that we all want to be,” Dicus said during a press conference. “He was a grand and great protector and a great father, and we will be suffering his loss and supporting his family for quite some time.”
Cuevas is survived by his wife, two children, parents, and siblings.
Deadly Crash During Pursuit
The chase began shortly before 11 a.m. after deputies received a report about a possible stolen vehicle. A Victorville deputy spotted the suspect’s car, leading to a pursuit through city streets.
During the chase, Cuevas’ patrol vehicle collided with another car, a black Toyota Camry, before crashing into a light pole at the intersection of El Evado and Seneca roads.
The impact was so severe that his patrol car was split in half. Cuevas died at the scene.
The driver of the bystander vehicle, a woman in her 20s, sustained minor injuries and was later released from the hospital.
Suspect’s Criminal History
Authorities later tracked down the stolen vehicle and arrested Turner, who has a history of vehicle-related crimes.
- Previously arrested for evading police, leading to another officer’s crash.
- Lengthy record of vehicular thefts.
An investigation into the circumstances of the crash is ongoing.
Procession Honors Fallen Deputy
Law enforcement agencies escorted Cuevas’ body in a solemn procession to the San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office.
- Firefighters stood atop their trucks on an overpass, saluting as the procession passed.
- A large American flag was draped over the entrance of the coroner’s office.
The San Bernardino Police Officers Association issued a statement:
“We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of a San Bernardino County deputy. Our thoughts and prayers are with their family, friends, and the entire agency during this difficult time. They made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community, and their bravery will never be forgotten.”
The intersection where the crash occurred remained closed for the rest of the day as authorities investigated.