Staff Reports

Eastvale– On Thursday, May 30, a 15-year-old Eastvale resident was killed after a hit and run incident.

At around 2:40 a.m. on Thursday morning, the Eastvale Police Department arrived at 68th street near Tarah Street in Eastvale.  Witnesses told Police Officers that they saw a dark colored 4-door sedan hit the 15-year-old male juvenile. Then, the driver of the vehicle fled eastbound on 68th Street without stopping and assisting the juvenile, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.

The juvenile had major injuries upon the Police Department’s arrival. However, despite life-saving efforts by American Medical Response personnel, the juvenile succumbed to his injuries. 

The victim was later identified as Anthony Gaitan. Many family members described Anthony as a happy kid with a gentle spirit.  “He had the biggest heart ever and always made others laugh; he always made people laugh with his funny faces,” said Mercedez Gaitan.  “He loved to skateboard and was such a character,” she continued. 

A vigil was held on Thursday evening, where many gathered to honor Anthony.  Several fundraisers were also held to help with funeral costs. In addition, a GoFundMe page has been set up for the family: https://www.gofundme.com/anthony-gaitan?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_co_campmgmtbnr_w

Anthony’s aunt, Marta Gaitan, also spoke about Anthony’s passing.  “Our family is in shock, devastated and heartbroken. There are no words to describe what we are all going through right now as a family, to lose our precious Anthony at such a young age.”

However, upon their mourning, Marta states that their family seeks justice.  “If anyone has any information, please call your local Police Department.  If the person that committed and [is] responsible for this horrific act is reading this post, please come forward and do the right thing. Our family needs closure.”

Marta continues by thanking the community for their support.  “Thank you for your condolences and respectful, kind words of support to our family. Our precious Anthony was loved by so many,” she added.

The Jurupa Valley Station’s Traffic Reconstruction Team is conducting a full investigation to determine the cause of the collision. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to call Deputy Lonthair at the Jurupa Valley Station, 951-955-2600.  Persons who wish to report criminal activity and wish to remain anonymous can call crime stoppers at 800-78-CRIME (800-782-7463) or 800-47-DRUGS (800-473-7847).  You can also leave anonymous information at www.riversidesheriff.org/tipline or www.wetip.com.