Ramirez had been walking in the southbound lanes of Amargosa Road when he was struck by a silver Volkswagen Jetta, authorities said.
Victorville, CA – Authorities have released the identity of the pedestrian who was fatally struck in a hit-and-run earlier this week near the Victorville Police Department.
The deceased has been identified as 44-year-old Steven Ramirez, of Victorville. His name was made public following notification of the next of kin.
The fatal collision occurred on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at about 6:29 p.m., in the area of Amargosa Road and Civic Drive, where emergency crews responded after receiving reports of a pedestrian down in the roadway.
According to the Victorville Police Department, Ramirez had been walking in the southbound lanes of Amargosa Road when he was struck by a silver Volkswagen Jetta. The driver of the vehicle fled immediately after the impact, leaving the victim critically injured.
Despite prompt life-saving measures administered by first responders, Ramirez was pronounced deceased at the scene shortly after medical personnel arrived.
Deputies, with support from the Sheriff’s Aviation Unit, tracked down the suspect vehicle a short time later. The driver, identified as 23-year-old Juan Torres of Adelanto, was located and taken into custody without incident. Officials said Torres cooperated with investigators during the arrest.
Victorville City Public Works assisted with traffic management as authorities worked the scene. Amargosa Road was shut down between Seneca Road and Palmdale Road, and Civic Drive was closed at California Avenue for several hours while investigators examined the crash site.
The Victorville Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the hit-and-run, including potential contributing factors and the events leading up to the collision.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics in California
Pedestrian fatalities remain a major public-safety concern across California. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), more than 1,100 pedestrians were killed statewide in 2022, marking one of the highest totals in the nation and reflecting an upward trend over the past decade. California consistently ranks among the top states for pedestrian deaths due to high population density and heavy roadway traffic.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, you may need to get in touch with an experienced attorney immediately to find out how to proceed with your case. Our team will review whether another party was negligent, the extent of your injuries, the medical treatment you need, and the legal options available. Our pedestrian accident lawyers provide free consultations by phone, video call, or in person, and you will never owe any fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.