PALM DESERT, CA (April 12, 2023) – A tragic incident occurred in Palm Desert when a young man, allegedly driving under the influence, fatally struck 34-year-old Jaime Dodge. The suspect, 21-year-old Christian Ruvalcaba, was later released on a $75,000 bail bond.
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Ruvalcaba was arrested Monday night on suspicion of felony hit and run, driving under the influence causing injury, and vehicular manslaughter, according to Sgt. Don Olson of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. Deputies responded to a traffic collision report at the intersection of Highway 111 and Deep Canyon Drive around 9:30 p.m. on Monday.
It is believed that Ruvalcaba was driving a silver Honda CRV, which struck Jaime Dodge, a pedestrian, and then fled the scene. When deputies arrived, they found Dodge with severe injuries and immediately began life-saving measures. Sadly, Dodge was later taken to the Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, where he passed away at 10 p.m.
The suspect vehicle was eventually found later that night in Beaumont, where Ruvalcaba was allegedly under the influence of drugs. He was booked into the John J. Benoit Detention Center in Indio on Tuesday morning but was released by Wednesday after posting bail. Ruvalcaba’s first court appearance is expected on July 13th.
If anyone has more information about the heartbreaking accident involving Jaime Dodge, they are encouraged to contact Deputy Claro Sanchez of the Palm Desert sheriff’s station at 760-836-1600 or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-782-7463.
Investigating Jaime Dodge’s Pedestrian Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of David Wensloff. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to police. There needs to be some accountability for what happened.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a car accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need assistance after an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.