Santa Rosa, CA (March 17, 2025) – Robert “Bob” Halmayr, 28, was killed on Monday night when another driver allegedly ran a red light and crashed into his vehicle at the intersection of Farmers Lane and Montgomery Drive.
Accident Details: Halmayr was driving northbound on Farmers Lane with the right-of-way when a Nissan Maxima collided with his vehicle at the Montgomery Drive intersection. The crash was so forceful that both vehicles left the roadway and ended up on adjacent church property. Halmayr, who reportedly had the right of way, died at the scene.
The driver of the Nissan, 21-year-old Aaron Rodriguez Hernandez, was hospitalized with moderate injuries. He was later arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter, DUI involving drugs, and other charges. Hernandez is reportedly on probation for a 2023 misdemeanor battery conviction and is currently being held on $155,000 bail.
Notably, a Santa Rosa police officer had seen Hernandez speeding just a minute before the collision. Although the officer did not initiate a traffic stop, they activated lights and sirens to navigate intersections while following the vehicle. Due to this law enforcement involvement, the Santa Rosa Police Department activated a critical incident protocol, triggering an independent investigation led by the CHP and reviewed by the Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: When drivers run a red light while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they violate traffic laws and the duty to drive safely. In fatal DUI crashes and right-of-way questions, investigators will assess toxicology reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage, as well as any police body cam or dash cam evidence, to build a timeline of events. Because law enforcement had a visual on the suspect’s vehicle before the crash, the independent review will also need to determine whether officer actions played any contributory role.
If negligence is found, Halmayr’s family may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim, which can provide compensation for funeral expenses, lost companionship, and emotional trauma.
I extend my condolences to the family and friends of Robert Halmayr. A GoFundMe account has been created to help his family. Please contribute if you can.
Source: The Press Democrat