Full Notification

On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at approximately 8:53 p.m., the Rialto Police Department Communications Center received notification from the Redlands Police Department regarding a stolen vehicle investigation they were conducting in their jurisdiction. Redlands officers advised that the victim’s stolen vehicle, a silver 2018 Dodge van, was possibly in the area of Riverside Avenue and Baseline Road in the City of Rialto.

Rialto officers responded to the area and located the vehicle being driven by the suspect, identified as Emanuel Ayala. Officers attempted a traffic stop, however, Ayala failed to stop and fled resulting in a vehicle pursuit.

At the intersection of Highland Avenue and Pepper Avenue, Ayala failed to stop for a red traffic signal and collided with another vehicle driven by a 39-year-old San Bernardino resident. The driver of the unrelated vehicle sustained major injuries and was transported by Rialto Fire Department paramedics to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders and hospital staff, the victim tragically succumbed to his injuries at 10:02 p.m.

Ayala sustained minor injuries and was taken into custody at the scene.

The San Bernardino Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team responded to conduct an independent investigation into the collision. Ayala was booked into the West Valley Detention Center on suspicion of Vehicular Manslaughter, Felony Evading Resulting in Death, and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle. Ayala’s bail was originally set at $60,000. 

Due to Ayala’s previous felony convictions for grand theft auto, including felony evading that demonstrated a lack of care for public safety, the Rialto Police Department Investigative Bureau completed a bail enhancement request. A San Bernardino County Superior Court Judge granted a NO BAIL enhancement. Additionally, Rialto Police Detectives determined that Ayala has an extensive criminal past, including 30 arrests and convictions ranging from Grand Theft Auto, narcotics and prior theft convictions. 

This investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Rialto Police Department. Witnesses wishing to remain anonymous may contact WeTip at (800) 782-7463.

Captain Lamont Quarker
Public Information Officer
[email protected]
(909) 820-2634

MARK P. KLING, Chief of Police 
Rialto Police Department