Victorville, CA – March 18, 2025 – A San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy was tragically killed on Monday, March 17, 2025, in a horrific traffic collision during a high-speed pursuit of a stolen vehicle in Victorville. The deputy, identified as 36-year-old Hector Cuevas Jr., a six-year veteran of the department, succumbed to his injuries at the scene, leaving behind a wife, two children, and a grieving community.
The fatal crash occurred at approximately 11:09 a.m. at the intersection of Seneca and El Evado roads. According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Deputy Cuevas was pursuing a reportedly stolen vehicle when his patrol SUV collided with another car, causing catastrophic damage. The impact was so severe that the deputy’s vehicle was torn in two, scattering debris across the roadway and knocking down live electrical wires, which complicated initial rescue efforts.
Sheriff Shannon Dicus, speaking at an emotional press conference on Monday afternoon, identified Cuevas as the fallen deputy and praised his dedication. “Hector is the type of law enforcement officer we all want to be,” Dicus said. “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, who had served at the Victorville Sheriff’s Station for the past three years, was described as a “cop’s cop” – someone equally adept at confronting hardened criminals and comforting children in need.
Authorities arrested 22-year-old Ryan Dwayne Turner Jr., a San Bernardino resident, as the suspected driver of the stolen vehicle. Turner faces charges of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and evading a peace officer, causing death or serious injury. Sheriff Dicus noted that Turner had a prior arrest for evading police, and the department is seeking no bail as the case progresses.
The collision also involved a second vehicle driven by 23-year-old Marcelline Demyan, who was injured and transported to a local hospital. She is expected to recover, though she described the harrowing moment of the crash to reporters, noting she had been waiting at a traffic light when the deputy’s SUV struck her car.
Following the tragedy, a somber procession of law enforcement vehicles escorted Cuevas’ body from Victorville to the San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office along the I-15 Freeway. Firefighters, fellow deputies, and community members lined the route, saluting as the convoy passed, a testament to the deputy’s impact on the region.
Cuevas, a devout family man, had also served briefly with the Upland Police Department before returning to the Sheriff’s Department. Beyond his law enforcement career, he was known in the community as a high school football coach, touching the lives of many young athletes.
The Sheriff’s Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team is examining the circumstances of the crash, including skid marks and other evidence, to determine the precise cause. The intersection of Seneca and El Evado roads remained closed into Monday evening as investigators worked the scene.
“This is a tragedy for the department, the Cuevas family, and this community,” Sheriff Dicus said. “We are forever grateful for Hector’s service and sacrifice.” The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has vowed to support Cuevas’ family in the days ahead, as tributes pour in from across Southern California honoring the fallen deputy’s legacy.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities urge anyone with information to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
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