Pedestrian Hit, Killed by Off-Duty Deputy Identified
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PALMDALE — Investigators on Saturday released the name of a 19-year-old man struck and killed by a car driven by an off-duty Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy early Friday.
Jerry Vandewetering was hit as he crossed Pearblossom Highway at Barrel Springs Road by a Ford Aspire driven by Richard Bojorquez, 30, of Palmdale. A deputy with the East Los Angeles station, Bojorquez was returning home when the accident occurred.
Initial reports said Vandewetering was 17, but Sheriff’s Sgt. Mike Graham said police later confirmed his age as 19. Graham said he did not know where Vandewetering lived.
Police said the victim was following a female companion, Kimberly Chandler, 19, of Lake Los Angeles, who had crossed the street moments before the 4:20 a.m. accident.
Bojorquez, who was not injured, entered the intersection on a green light but apparently failed to see Vandewetering, who was wearing a black shirt and black pants, authorities said.
Sheriff’s Deputy Mike Rice said neither alcohol, drugs nor speeding played a role in the accident. Graham said Saturday that no charges have been filed against Bojorquez.
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