News Summary
A hit-and-run accident in Huntington Beach has claimed the life of Eric John Williams, a 45-year-old cyclist from Garden Grove. The incident occurred when Williams and two other cyclists were struck by a vehicle early Monday morning. The driver fled the scene but has since been charged with multiple felonies. The community mourns the loss of Williams, who was active in local organizations and blessed with a family of four. A vigil is planned to honor his memory and a GoFundMe campaign has raised over $250,000 for his family.
Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Life of Local Cyclist in Huntington Beach
This week, Huntington Beach experienced an incredibly tragic event as a dedicated cyclist lost his life in a hit-and-run accident. Eric John Williams, a 45-year-old resident of Garden Grove, was identified as the victim of this heartbreaking incident that unfolded early Monday morning.
The Incident Unfolds
Just after 6:45 a.m., at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Newland Street, Williams was cycling with two other cyclists when they were struck by a vehicle. The impact was devastating, and despite the efforts of emergency responders, Williams was pronounced dead at the scene. His two companions sustained significant injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
Driver on the Run
Following the crash, the driver, identified as Amber Kristine Calderon, a 43-year-old from Long Beach, hastily fled the scene. Authorities reported that she drove approximately half a mile before stopping her vehicle, a 2006 gold Mercedes E-Class. Calderon has since been charged with multiple felonies, including a count of hit-and-run with permanent and serious injury. Additionally, she faces two counts for failing to stop at a hit-and-run incident that resulted in injury or death.
A Community in Mourning
The loss of Eric Williams has sent shockwaves through the community. Not only was he an avid cyclist, but he was also a crucial part of local organizations. Williams was a founder of the Community Church of West Garden Grove and served as a youth teaching pastor at Seaside Community Church. Remarkably, he had recently celebrated his 20th wedding anniversary and was the proud father of three daughters and a son.
In honor of Williams’ memory and the positive impact he had on his community, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support his family. Amazingly, more than $250,000 has already been raised, showcasing the love and respect the community has for him and his family.
A Vigil to Remember
His memory will be celebrated with a vigil scheduled for Friday at Eastgate Park in Garden Grove. This event will provide an opportunity for friends, family, and community members to come together, share stories, and mourn the tragic loss.
Williams’ Contributions
Beyond his love of cycling, Williams was an active member of his community. He served on the board of the nonprofit Garden Grove Community Foundation and was a former city commissioner. His commitment to making his neighborhood a better place was evident in all he did.
The Investigation Continues
The Huntington Beach police are continuing their investigation into the accident, with a focus on whether factors such as alcohol played a role in the crash. Witness accounts indicate that the cyclists were struck from behind while they were riding in the bike lane, and conditions at the time of the incident were foggy. Eyewitnesses reported seeing debris and mangled bicycles scattered up to 50 feet from the point of impact, emphasizing the severity of the collision.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by cyclists on the road and the importance of road safety for all. The community will come together not only to mourn Williams’ loss but also to advocate for the safety of all who share the road.
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Additional Resources
- NBC Los Angeles: Huntington Beach Cyclist Killed Identified
- Wikipedia: Cycling Safety
- CBS News Los Angeles: Huntington Beach Fatal Hit-and-Run
- Google Search: Huntington Beach Cyclist Hit-and-Run
- LA Times: Driver Arrested After DUI Hit-and-Run
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bicycle Traffic Safety
- KTLA: 1 Cyclist Dead, 2 Hurt After DUI Hit-and-Run
- Google News: Huntington Beach Cyclist Hit-and-Run
- MyNewsLA: Bicyclist Killed in Collision, Driver Arrested
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.
