David Heard Killed in Temecula Pedestrian Accident Involving DUI Suspect
TEMECULA, CA (July 29, 2026) — David Heard, 39, of Murrieta, died July 24th in a pedestrian accident involving a suspected DUI driver at Rancho California Road and Riesling Court in Temecula.
The multi-vehicle crash occurred around 6:51 p.m. on Friday, July 24th, just east of Interstate 15, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities responded to the crash scene involving three vehicles and a pedestrian identified as David Heard who was fatally injured. Two other people were injured and transported to hospitals.
A Bellflower man identified as Jonathan Ruiz, 38, was driving one of the vehicles and was allegedly intoxicated.
He was arrested and now faces murder and drunk driving causing injury charges. He was booked at Cois Byrd Detention Center, police said.
Finally, the Murrieta man who died is survived by his wife, Elsie, and two young children, according to the family’s GoFundMe page.
“He was the kind of person who would give the shirt off his back to help someone else, and he left this world doing what he always did—helping others,” said Amy Williams, organizer of the fundraiser.
Authorities are asking witnesses to contact Deputy Samuel Strizver at the Southwest Sheriff’s Station at 951-696-3000 or the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office at 951-776-1099.
Got Legal Questions? Get Answers: 1-800-208-3538
When it matters most, trust Attorney James Johnson at Johnson Attorneys Group. We are a personal injury law firm serving clients who have been injured throughout California due to negligent motorists. If you were hurt in this collision, call 1-(800) 208-3538. We will request the police report, and the attorney will discuss your options. You are under no obligation to hire us, and there is no cost unless we win your case. Our personal injury law firm is a proud, longtime supporter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
