(This story has been updated with additional information.)
A renowned scientist and adventurer died in a hit-and-run collision while riding his motorcycle along Highway 138 at the base of the Cajon Pass on Easter Sunday, officials said.
The crash was first reported about 5:20 p.m. April 5 on the highway just east of the 15 Freeway, according to California Highway Patrol logs.
It involved a motorcycle and a gold Chrysler minivan, logs show.
The motorcyclist died at the scene. The driver of the other vehicle fled.
San Bernardino County coroner’s officials identified the victim as 45-year-old Taylor Cole of Crestline.
Officers requested a helicopter to conduct a search of the area for a possible person on foot “hiding or walking” in the area, as well as inquired with local hospitals regarding crash victims who may have just arrived, according to CHP logs. The suspect remained at large.
Specialized tow trucks qualified to handle “evidence” were summoned to collect the van and motorcycle.
No further details were released.
Highway 138 was closed in both directions at the crash scene for the investigation, along with the 15 Freeway connector roads to eastbound Highway 138.
‘A true American patriot, a devoted father, and a gifted engineer and mathematician’
Cole served as chief technology officer at the U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center in Corona, according to public records and an online fundraiser established to help Cole’s family established by a friend and colleague. He leaves behind a daughter.
“Taylor Cole was a true American patriot, a devoted father, and a gifted engineer and mathematician,” according to the memorial. “He dedicated his life to our nation’s security, first as an engineer whose mathematical analysis protected our service members from improvised explosive devices, and then as a forward-leaning, fast-prototyping, out-of-the-box innovator.”
His expertise included data science, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, meromorphic computing, new materials and innovation processes.
He also founded Burble Creativity, which develops technology to aid children on the autism spectrum.
“His professional achievements were remarkable, but those of us who knew him best saw a loving father who wanted everyone to live life to the fullest and have fun along the way,” according to the statement.
“Taylor was a sky-diving, base-jumping, unicycling, motorcycle-riding, piloting, goat-loving, dog-loving, fun-bossing dancing fool,” the memorial continued.
Cole was among 104 skydivers who teamed up to make a world record-breaking jump in November.
“He was a unique mentor, an old soul, and a hugely impactful personality,” the statement said. “However you interacted with him, you always left feeling uplifted. He would say to everyone, ‘yea’ buddy, stay rad.’ Raise a glass and share a toast for this legendary man.”
Any witnesses, or anyone with information, can reach the CHP’s San Bernardino Area Office at (909) 383-4247.
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Scientist, adventurer killed in hit-and-run on Hwy 138 near Cajon Pass
Reporting by Brian Day, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
