A Lyft driver who was killed in a hit-and-run early Saturday morning on eastbound Highway 94 has been identified, the medical examiner confirmed Saturday night.
Henry O. Reyes, 41, pulled over onto the right shoulder of the freeway between 25th and 28th Street when one of three passengers in the car became sick, California Highway Patrol (CHP) said.
The suspect slammed into the back of Reyes' car around 1:12 a.m.
CHP found the Reyes outside of the car and all three passengers were inside.
Reyes was pronounced dead at the scene.
“At the time of the collision I believe … the Lyft driver exited the vehicle to assist one of his passengers that wasn’t feeling well,” Sgt. Aboy of CHP said.
The hit-and-run driver then lost control of his car, landing in an embankment.
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The suspect fled on foot with a passenger and a dog, but they were soon caught by CHP officers with the help of the San Diego Police Department’s ABLE helicopter.
The two adults were arrested and taken into custody.
The three Lyft passengers were taken to the hospital for precautionary reasons, but the extent of their injuries is unknown.
Lyft put out a statement on the fatal crash:
“We were heartbroken to learn of the tragic hit-and-run accident that took the life of a Lyft driver,” Lyft spokesman Alexandra LaManna said. “Our deepest condolences are with the victim’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.”
Reyes lived in Escondido.
