A 70-year-old man, Julio Arreola, is recovering in the hospital following a hit-and-run incident in El Cajon, California. The accident occurred on March 5, 2024, when Arreola was struck while crossing the street near US Bank on Fletcher Parkway and Pioneer Way around 15:30 local time. Arreola sustained serious injuries, including fractures to his ribs and spine, and required staples for a head injury.
Reflecting on his experience from his hospital bed, Arreola stated, “I was lucky not to get killed or paralyzed.” His sister, Luz Arreola, has been by his side, providing support during his recovery. The injuries have left him unable to work at his TV repair shop, raising concerns about his ability to manage bills while he focuses on healing.
The incident is part of a disturbing trend of hit-and-run accidents in the area. Just weeks earlier, a tragic incident resulted in the death of a 6-year-old boy in nearby City Heights, while another hit-and-run left a 12-year-old boy hospitalized in El Cajon. These incidents have raised alarms about driver behavior and road safety in the community.
The suspect in Arreola’s case, Brian Guevara, 19, fled the scene of the accident but was later apprehended by police using license plate readers. He has been booked on charges related to the hit-and-run, which has prompted the community to call for greater awareness and caution among drivers.
Arreola and his family are urging the public to exercise increased vigilance while driving, especially in areas where pedestrians are likely to be present. “We need to prevent further tragedies,” said Luz Arreola, emphasizing the importance of driver responsibility.
As Arreola continues his recovery, he remains hopeful for a full return to health. The ongoing support from his family and community may be pivotal in helping him overcome the challenges ahead.
This report includes information gathered by journalists at KSWB, and has been fact-checked and edited for accuracy before publication.
