Shocking Hit-and-Run Collision on Stockdale Highway Kills Bicyclist [Bakersfield, CA]

Bakersfield, CA (June 24, 2025) — A bicyclist who suffered critical injuries in a hit-and-run collision on Stockdale Highway in northwest Bakersfield died Monday, prompting authorities to upgrade charges against the suspected driver.

The crash happened around 1:05 a.m. on June 20 at the intersection of Stockdale Highway and Calloway Drive. Bakersfield police responded to reports of a hit-and-run and found a man lying in the roadway with severe injuries. He was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Investigators identified the driver as 35-year-old Tamera Elsie Popoy. Police said she fled the scene after striking the bicyclist and was later located near Westside Parkway. Officers detained her and determined she was allegedly driving under the influence.

According to the investigation, the bicyclist was traveling west through the intersection in a crosswalk when a southbound vehicle entered the intersection and failed to stop at flashing red traffic signals, resulting in the collision.

Following the victim’s death, prosecutors upgraded the charges against Popoy to gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. She remains in custody.

During the investigation, officers also arrested a second driver, 49-year-old Vella Marroquin, after she allegedly drove into the coned-off crash scene and nearly struck an officer. Authorities said she was heavily intoxicated and booked on DUI-related charges.

The identity of the bicyclist has not yet been released pending notification by the Kern County Coroner’s Office. The investigation remains ongoing.

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Sweet Lawyers extends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of the bicyclist who lost his life in this tragic collision. We hope they find comfort and strength as they mourn this heartbreaking loss.

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