Bakersfield, CA (February 27, 2024) – A devastating accident in northeast Bakersfield has led to the death of 15-year-old Jacob Gonzalez after the mini-bike he was riding collided with a vehicle. The incident occurred on the evening of February 27, around 9:40 p.m., at the intersection of River Boulevard and Skyline Boulevard.
Jacob, who had built the gas-powered mini-bike himself, was riding with his brother Kelvin Gonzalez as a passenger when they encountered an orange Jeep. The collision resulted in Jacob being taken to Kern Medical, where he tragically passed away the following morning. The condition of his brother was not detailed, though he survived the crash.
The Importance of the Investigation: While a homemade mini-bike certainly isn’t street legal, there are still a lot of details about this accident that remain unclear. The circumstances leading to the collision, including the direction of travel of both the mini-bike and the Jeep and the subsequent actions taken by the Jeep’s driver, are crucial to the investigation. These details would help determine liability and any potential wrongful death claim.
Community Impact and Safety Measures: The loss of Jacob Gonzalez has deeply affected the Bakersfield community, particularly his family and friends who remember him as a passionate and skilled young mechanic. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance while driving, to protect all road users.
My thoughts are with the Gonzalez family and all those affected by this tragic event. Losing a child in this way is devastating, and I hope that they receive the support they need during this difficult time. The family have set up a GoFundMe page to support funeral expenses and lay Jacob to rest in his hometown of Los Angeles. Please consider helping them if you can.
Source: KGET