News Summary
A tragic hit-and-run incident in Huntington Beach left one cyclist dead and two others severely injured. The driver, Amber Kristine Calderon, faces serious charges, including felony hit-and-run and DUI. The community rallies in support of the victims as investigations continue, highlighting the growing concern for cyclist safety in California.
Huntington Beach experienced a tragic incident on October 20, 2025, when a hit-and-run driver struck three cyclists, resulting in one fatality and two severe injuries. The accident occurred shortly after 6:45 a.m. on the Pacific Coast Highway, near Newland Street.
The driver, 43-year-old Amber Kristine Calderon from Long Beach, has been charged with several serious offenses, including felony hit-and-run, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and felony DUI causing bodily harm. Additionally, she was found in possession of narcotics during the incident. Following the collision, Calderon fled the scene but was detained approximately half a mile away by law enforcement officials.
Among the cyclists struck was 45-year-old Eric John Williams from Garden Grove, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The identities and current conditions of the other two injured cyclists have not been released, as they remain hospitalized with significant injuries.
The investigation into the accident is being led by the Huntington Beach Police Department’s Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT). Authorities have temporarily closed the southbound lanes of the Pacific Coast Highway as they conduct their investigation, reopening them before 1 p.m. on the day of the incident. Police are actively seeking any witnesses who may have seen the accident or the events leading up to it.
Community Response and Support
The community has rallied in support of Eric John Williams and his family following this devastating incident. A vigil is planned to commemorate his contributions to the community and to express condolences to his family and friends. In a remarkable show of support, a GoFundMe page set up for Williams’ family has raised nearly $250,000 by Wednesday evening after the incident, demonstrating the impact he had on those around him.
Legal Implications
Under California law, families of victims in such cases and surviving injured individuals have the right to pursue compensation through personal injury or wrongful death claims, generally within two years from the date of death. The ongoing investigation will also determine whether impairment or other factors played a role in the crash.
Background Context
Traffic incidents involving cyclists have become an increasing concern in California, with the state reporting a significant number of cycling-related accidents each year. Many advocacy groups are working to improve road safety for cyclists, emphasizing the need for driver awareness and responsibility. This tragic incident highlights the ongoing issue of driving under the influence and the severe consequences it can have on individuals and communities alike.
As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful for justice for Eric John Williams and a swift recovery for the injured cyclists. The tragic events of October 20 have significantly impacted many lives, underscoring the importance of road safety and awareness, particularly for vulnerable road users such as cyclists.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Life of Cyclist in Huntington Beach
Tragic Collision in Huntington Beach Claims Life of Cyclist
Tragedy Strikes Huntington Beach: Bicyclist Killed in Hit-and-Run
Tragic Collision on Pacific Coast Highway Claims Life of Bicyclist
Tragic Hit-and-Run Incident in Huntington Beach Claims Life of Bicyclist
Tragic Accident in Huntington Beach: Bicyclist Killed in DUI Collision
Tragedy Strikes Huntington Beach: Cyclist Collision Leaves One Dead and Two Injured
Additional Resources
- Gosuits: Huntington Beach Bicycle Crash
- California Injury Accident Lawyer: Fatal Bicycle Accident
- LA Times: DUI Hit-and-Run Kills Cyclist
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Safety
- Google News: Huntington Beach Bicycle Crash
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.
