News Summary
Huntington Beach mourns the loss of Eric John Williams, a devoted pastor who was killed in a hit-and-run accident while biking. His community mourns as legal actions unfold against the driver, who fled the scene. Friends and family are coming together to support each other during this heartbreaking time. A vigil has been held to honor Williams and a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist his family.
Heartbreaking Incident in Huntington Beach
The vibrant coastal city of Huntington Beach is reeling from a tragic hit-and-run incident that took the life of a beloved pastor and cherished community member. The victim, Eric John Williams, a 45-year-old resident of Garden Grove, was known for his kindness and commitment to serving others. On the morning of October 20, while riding his bicycle with two friends, Williams was involved in a collision that would change their lives forever.
The Accident
At approximately 6:47 a.m., as the trio pedaled along Pacific Coast Highway, a gold 2006 Mercedes-Benz E-Class driven by Amber Kristine Calderon, a 43-year-old from Long Beach, veered onto the shoulder and struck the cyclists. Tragically, Williams was pronounced dead at the scene. His two friends were left with serious injuries, including spinal fractures, broken ribs, and a broken ankle—a harsh reminder of how quickly life can change.
After the shocking event, Calderon continued to drive despite her vehicle having a flat tire and visible damage. She even passed through a state park parking lot without stopping, showing a complete disregard for the devastation she had just caused. A courageous witness, who observed the crash, pursued Calderon and managed to block her vehicle until the police arrived.
Legal Repercussions
Huntington Beach police quickly acted, arresting Calderon on suspicion of driving under the influence, gross vehicular manslaughter, and possessing a hard drug, all amidst her prior convictions. The situation intensified as prosecutors charged her with three felony counts related to the hit-and-run that caused injury or death. As the legal proceedings unfold, toxicology reports are still pending to determine if alcohol or drugs played a role in the horrific incident.
A Community in Mourning
In the wake of this unimaginable loss, friends and community members gathered for a candlelight vigil to honor Williams and celebrate his life. He was a co-founder of the Community Church of West Garden Grove, established with his wife, Robyn, back in 2011. Together, they created a welcoming space for many, demonstrating Williams’ commitment to his faith and community.
Williams is survived by his wife and their four children, who are now faced with the emotional and financial strain following this tragic incident. The family expressed their heartbreak over losing a pillar of strength and love in their lives, while also conveying gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from the community during this difficult time.
Community Support
As the community rallies around the Williams family, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to help cover funeral expenses, allowing those who wish to contribute in celebrating the life of a man who dedicated himself to service and love for others. The memorial site along Pacific Coast Highway has drawn many, particularly local cyclists, who expressed shock and sadness over the tragic loss of a fellow rider and friend.
Call for Justice
This heartbreaking incident has resonated deeply, amplifying discussions about safety for cyclists in the area. District Attorney Todd Spitzer emphasized the importance of seeking justice for Williams and the injured cyclists, underlining the need for accountability in such devastating situations. As the community grapples with this tragedy, the hope for justice remains strong.
Huntington Beach and its residents face a long road to healing, as they remember a man whose life touched many, and who will be dearly missed. This heart-wrenching incident serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety for all.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Tragic Collision on Pacific Coast Highway Claims Life of Bicyclist
Tragic Hit-and-Run Incident in Huntington Beach Claims Life of Bicyclist
Additional Resources
- KTLA: Southern California Pastor Killed
- ABC7: Remembering Eric Williams
- Los Angeles Times: Memorial for Eric Williams
- Biking in LA: Tragic Hit-and-Run Incident
- Google Search: Eric Williams Huntington Beach accident
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
