A 48-year-old man who was struck and killed on a Valle Vista street was attempting to cross it when he was hit by a sedan, but it was unclear who had the right of way, authorities said Monday.
David Hartlerode of Valle Vista was fatally hit about 6:50 p.m. Saturday at the intersection of Florida and New Chicago avenues, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Officer Jonathan Torres told City News Service that Hartlerode entered Florida using a designated crosswalk when a Honda sedan driven by a 56-year-old Hemet man going eastbound approached at 35 to 40 mph.
“The pedestrian’s entering the intersection resulted in the Honda striking him,” Torres said.
The motorist, who was not hurt, immediately stopped and waited for authorities.
Riverside County Fire Department paramedics reached the location within five minutes and pronounced Hartlerode dead at the scene.
Torres said the driver was screened for possible alcohol or drug impairment, but there was no evidence of either.
The man was questioned but not arrested.
Torres said it was still unknown whether the victim or the driver failed to yield to the appropriate traffic signals.
The investigation was ongoing Monday.