Coroner’s officials have identified a 19-year-old Adelanto woman who died after falling from a moving vehicle in Victorville this week.
Danielle Fernandez died at the scene of the incident, which was first reported about 1:20 a.m. on Monday, March 9, at Hesperia Road and Verde Street, according to San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner’s officials.
Deputies responded to what was initially reported as a possible collision between a vehicle and pedestrian when they found Fernandez lying injured in the roadway, sheriff’s officials said.
It was ultimately determined that the woman had not been struck by a car, but rather “had fallen from a moving vehicle,” according to sheriff’s department spokeswoman Jenny Smith. No other vehicles were believed to have been involved.
The driver of the involved vehicle, described as a friend of Fernandez, remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators, agency spokeswoman Gloria Orejel said. No further details were available.
An official manner of death was yet to be determined by coroner’s officials. The investigation was ongoing.
‘A loving and caring person with a big heart’
Fernandez, also known to loved ones as “Lucka,” was being remembered as “a loving and caring person with a big heart,” according to a statement from family accompanying an online fundraiser to aid with funeral costs.
“She brought joy to everyone around her, always laughing, joking, and sharing her warmth,” the statement said.
“She loved playing her drums and connecting with people—her kindness touched everyone she met, and anyone who knew her loved her back,” family stated. “Lucka was also a talented local photographer for shows, capturing special moments for others and sharing her creative spirit with the community. She was the kind of person who would go out of her way to help others, and her generosity made a lasting impact on our family and friends.”
Any witnesses, or anyone with information, can reach the Victorville Police Department at (760) 241-2911. Information may also be provided anonymously to the WeTip hotline by calling or texting (844) 909-3096.
(This story will be updated as additional information becomes available.)
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Adelanto woman, 19, who died in fall from car in Victorville identified
Reporting by Brian Day, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
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