13-Year-Old Cody Villatoro Killed in Hit-and-Run Crash on Evans Road [Riverside County, CA]

Riverside County, CA (September 17, 2026) – 13-year-old Cody Villatoro of Menifee was killed in a hit-and-run crash on Evans Road Wednesday afternoon.

The deadly crash happened before 5 p.m. on September 16.

According to the accident report, the authorities received reports of a burglary at the 27000 block of Hemingway Court. 

Responding officers saw the suspect, Melody Valdez, 21, of Temecula, fleeing the scene in a vehicle. 

Troopers attempted to stop Valdez, but she continued to flee.

Police then started a pursuit and the suspect sped west on Holland Avenue where she ran a red light at the intersection with Evans Road. 

That is when Valdez struck Villatoro while riding a northbound e-bike.

 The authorities responded and declared Villatoro dead at the scene. 

Moreover, Valdez continued to flee but her vehicle became disabled. She was then arrested and booked into Cois M. Byrd Detention Center on suspicion of evading police, homicide, and other charges.

The victim’s family have created a GoFundMe to help with the funeral expenses.

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The Sweet Lawyers team extends heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of Cody Villatoro. May the bereaved find strength and peace during this difficult time.

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When a Fatal Accident Changes Everything

Losing someone you love in a crash is one of the hardest things anyone can go through. Beyond the deep emotional pain, families are often left facing sudden financial challenges — from medical bills and funeral costs to the loss of income that once helped keep everything together.

During times like these, it’s important to know that you don’t have to face it all alone. A wrongful death claim can help bring a measure of justice and financial relief to families dealing with unimaginable loss.

This kind of claim not only helps cover expenses but also holds the responsible party accountable — whether the crash was caused by distracted driving, speeding, or another act of negligence. It’s a way to stand up for your loved one and make sure their story is heard.

Financial compensation can help ease some of the burden by covering:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Medical expenses from the victim’s final care
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• Emotional loss and companionship

While no amount of money can ever replace someone you love, pursuing justice can bring a sense of closure and help prevent similar tragedies from happening to others.

You Deserve Support, Justice, and Peace of Mind

At Sweet Lawyers, we know how difficult this time can be — and we’re here to help you through it. Our experienced wrongful death and personal injury attorneys have spent decades standing up for families just like yours.

We’ll handle the legal side of things so you can focus on what truly matters: healing, remembering, and finding peace.

You shouldn’t have to carry this burden alone. If your loved one lost their life in a car accident, please reach out to Sweet Lawyers at (800) 674-7852 for a free, confidential consultation.

We’re available 24/7 — ready to listen, guide, and fight for the justice your family deserves.