A man was found dead late Saturday night on Pechanga Parkway in Temecula, following an assault and subsequent collision. According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, a deputy from the Southwest Sheriff’s Station discovered 35-year-old George Fresquez IV lying unresponsive in the roadway near Wolf Valley Road at approximately 11:50 p.m.
The deputy began providing medical aid after noticing that Fresquez had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle. Despite efforts from both deputies and medical personnel, Fresquez was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators determined that Fresquez had first been assaulted while in the roadway before being hit by a southbound vehicle. The Riverside Sheriff’s Central Homicide Unit took over the investigation and identified Alex Leyva, 39, of Vista as the suspect in the assault. Leyva was located, interviewed at the Southwest Sheriff’s Station, and booked into Cois Byrd Detention Center on suspicion of murder.
Authorities also identified and spoke with the driver of the vehicle involved in striking Fresquez. The driver cooperated with investigators and was released; officials stated that alcohol did not appear to be a factor in the collision.
“This case is active and ongoing, and no additional suspects are believed to be involved. This case will be forwarded to the Riverside District Attorney’s Office for review and prosecution. No further information will be released at this time,” according to a statement from law enforcement.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Investigator Farag of the Central Homicide Unit at (951) 955-2777 or Southwest Station Investigator Mills at (951) 696-3000.
For media inquiries regarding this incident please contact the Media Information Bureau.
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