Fatality reported after collision involving two vehicles in Apple Valley

A tragic incident took place on Sunday afternoon in Apple Valley when a man lost his life following a collision between his ATV and an SUV at the intersection of Navajo Road and Ottawa Road. The victim, identified as 40-year-old Juan M. Rodriguez Mendoza, was riding a blue 2002 Yamaha YFM660 ATV when the accident occurred at around 4:59 p.m. Investigators reported that Rodriguez Mendoza was traveling westbound on Ottawa Road and failed to yield at a stop sign before entering the path of the southbound silver 2016 Honda CR-V, driven by a 58-year-old Apple Valley man with two passengers. The collision resulted in Rodriguez Mendoza being thrown from the ATV. Despite being rushed to a local hospital for advanced medical care, he tragically succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the SUV stayed at the scene and provided full cooperation to the authorities, with all occupants of the SUV also receiving medical attention at a hospital. The investigation is being handled by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Major Accident Investigative Team, which is actively collecting evidence and speaking with witnesses to determine the circumstances of the incident. Those with any information are urged to reach out to Deputy G. Dominguez at the Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station or contact Sheriff’s Dispatch. Tips can also be made anonymously through We-Tip.