Jose Martinez Killed, Josue Reynaldo Arrested in Possible DUI crash Following a Police Chase in Petaluma
PETALUMA, CA (April 6, 2019) – A motorcyclist was killed in a possible DUI crash following a police chase in Petaluma Sunday at around 5:15 p.m. He was identified as 32-year-old Jose Francisco Martinez. He was with his 25-year-old brother Josue Reynaldo during the incident. Both are from Rancho Cordova.
According to California Highway Patrol officials, Martinez and Reynaldo were riding bikes on the southeastern outskirts of Petaluma. They were reported in a 911 call to be speeding.
CHP Officer Jon Sloat said that an officer pulled up behind the bikers in a marked police SUV on Ely Boulevard South near Frates Road and tried to pull them over using lights and sirens. However, the bikers rode on at a high rate of speed and headed south on Ely Boulevard South. Reynaldo abruptly stopped about a mile down the road near Browns Lane forcing the officer to swerve around him to avoid a collision.
Martinez apparently lost control, and the motorcycle laid down on its side and skidded through the intersection, crashing in a ditch and ejecting the rider. Martinez was pronounced dead at the scene.
Reynaldo followed the officer to the crash scene. He appeared to be intoxicated and was taken to the Petaluma police station and arrested. He was booked into the Sonoma County Jail and was released on bail.
Our sincerest condolences to the loved ones of Jose Francisco Martinez.
If you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash, reach out to the motorcycle accident lawyers at Sweet Law Group. With over 40 years in the legal field, we know what it takes to ensure your legal rights are protected. Call our offices today at (800) 674 7852 for a free consultation at a location nearest you. For your convenience, we can also be contacted 24/7 by email, online chat, and text message.