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Isaiah Ortega-Dage Dies in Desert Hot Springs Hit-and-Run, Police Arrest Jose Tafoya-Flores
DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA (September 20, 2021) – Isaiah Ortega-Dage died in a hit-and-run crash in Desert Hot Springs early Saturday, September 10.
The fatal crash happened on Palm Drive north of Varner Road just after midnight. According to the California Highway Patrol, the 23-year-old victim from Indio was riding in a vehicle with a female driver when they stopped between the right lane and right shoulder. Ortega-Dage then got out and walked to the driver’s side of the vehicle. While standing in the right-hand lane, an oncoming pickup struck him.
Ortega-Dage died at the scene, according to the Riverside County Coroner’s Office. He was a former Shadow Hills High School student and football player.
The CHP said the man driving the pickup fled the scene but was found by authorities a short distance away and was allegedly intoxicated. 41-year-old Jose Roberto Tafoya-Flores was arrested soon after, according to Riverside County booking records.
Tafoya-Flores is facing seven felony counts including gross vehicular manslaughter, hit and run death and DUI with injury, and two misdemeanor counts. His bail is set and $75,000.
An investigation into this fatal crash is ongoing.
We extend our deepest condolences to the grieving family and friends of Isaiah Ortega-Dage.
Seek help from The Law Offices of Daniel Kim if you have lost a loved one in a hit-and-run crash. We house excellent litigators who will work with you through every stage of the legal process. Our main goal is to help you obtain both justice and maximum compensation you deserve. Losing a family member in an accident caused by somebody else’s negligence is never easy. While you cope with grief, we will handle the rest. Call (800) 895-7199 to schedule a free consultation. You can also request a copy of the police report for your reference.
