Thomas Rhynes III Dies in Tragic Crash on East Main Street [Barstow, CA]

Barstow, CA (June 16, 2025) — A 34-year-old Barstow man is facing charges after authorities linked him to a fatal hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of 71-year-old Thomas Rhynes III earlier this month.

According to the Barstow Police Department, officers responded to the 1100 block of East Main Street at about 1:33 a.m. on June 1 following reports of a pedestrian being struck by a black SUV. The vehicle reportedly left the scene before police arrived.

Responding officers found Rhynes suffering from severe injuries in the roadway. Emergency crews transported him to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Investigators closed East Main Street for several hours while they processed the crash scene. Detective Bryce Carson led the investigation and eventually identified the suspect vehicle as a black Chevrolet Tahoe.

Authorities later found the SUV abandoned in Victorville and determined that Kevin Lashawn Farmer was allegedly behind the wheel at the time of the collision.

On June 11, Carson located and arrested Farmer on State Street in Barstow. Authorities booked him into the High Desert Detention Center on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter and felony hit-and-run resulting in death. He is being held on $100,000 bail.

Farmer was scheduled to appear in Victorville Superior Court on June 15, 2026.

---

Sweet Lawyers extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Thomas Rhynes III during this difficult time. We hope they find strength, comfort, and support as they mourn their loss.

---

When a Fatal Traffic Accident Shatters Lives

The sudden loss of a loved one in a traffic accident is overwhelming. Families are often left grappling with intense grief while also facing unexpected financial and legal challenges. Medical expenses, funeral costs, and the loss of income can quickly add stress to an already painful situation.

In these circumstances, a wrongful death claim may help families regain stability and seek accountability. While no legal action can ever replace a life, filing a claim allows families to understand their rights and pursue compensation for funeral expenses, medical care, lost wages, and future financial support.

Wrongful death claims also play an important role in holding negligent parties responsible. Whether an accident was caused by impaired driving, distraction, or unsafe conditions, accountability can help bring justice and raise awareness—potentially preventing similar tragedies in the future.

For many families, pursuing a claim brings a sense of clarity and closure. It’s not about assigning a price to a life; it’s about honoring your loved one and protecting your family’s future.

You should not have to bear additional hardship due to someone else’s negligence. Our experienced wrongful death and personal injury attorneys are here to guide you with compassion, respect, and dedication.

At Sweet Lawyers, we stand with families day and night, handling the legal challenges so you can focus on healing. We are committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.

If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, contact Sweet Lawyers at (800) 674-7852 . We’re here to listen, support you, and help you move forward.