Jose Tovar and Roberto Ruiz Fatally Injured in Patterson Solo-Car Crash near Oak Flat Road
PATTERSON, CA (June 28, 2019) – Two Santa Nella residents identified as Jose Tovar and Roberto Ruiz died in a solo-car accident in Patterson.
The California Highway Patrol reported the solo-car accident on southbound 5 Freeway north of Oak Flat Road about 4:15 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26.
Officers found the Lincoln Navigator SUV on its side at the bottom of a 90-foot embankment. 43-year-old Ruiz had been thrown off and died at the scene. His passenger, 65-year-old Tovar who was in the right front passenger seat also died.
The CHP’s initial investigation found out that the SUV moved at an unknown speed in the right lane when Ruiz drifted. This caused the front and rear tires to go over a raised asphalt curb. He instantly braked and steered left, partially into the lane, yet lost control.
He steered right again, and the Navigator went beyond the asphalt shoulder, over the curb and then down the embankment. The SUV rolled as it descended. This ejected Ruiz even though he was wearing his seat belt.
The investigation has not yet determined whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the incident.
We would like to take this moment to send our sincere sympathies to the families and friends of Jose Tovar and Roberto Ruiz.
The attorneys at the Sweet Lawyers are properly trained to assist you with your wrongful death claim. If you’ve lost a loved one or have been injured, consider our law firm for legal representation. We guide families and individuals who’ve been victims of negligence and reckless car accidents. When seeking support, you can count on us to be there for you. Call (800) 674 7852 for additional information.