DATE/TIME: August 6, 2026, 8:22 p.m.
INCIDENT: Traffic Collision
LOCATION: 21000 block of Outer Highway 18, Apple Valley
SUSPECT: Juan Mendoza, 29-year-old male, resident of Apple Valley
VICTIM(S): 7-year-old male juvenile
SUMMARY:
On August 6, 2026, at approximately 8:18 p.m., deputies from the Apple Valley Station responded to the 21000 block of Outer Highway 18 regarding a traffic collision.
Through investigation, deputies determined a 7-year-old juvenile was riding a scooter in the roadway while under the supervision of his father, Juan Mendoza. The juvenile was riding southeast on Outer Highway 18 when he was struck by a vehicle. Personnel from the Apple Valley Fire Protection District and American Medical Response responded to the scene and provided emergency medical care. The juvenile was transported to a local hospital, then airlifted to a trauma center. He is currently in critical condition.
The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and cooperated with deputies during the investigation. Mendoza was determined to be under the influence of drugs while supervising the juvenile. Mendoza was arrested and booked at the High Desert Detention Center for PC 273a(a) – Child Cruelty Causing Great Bodily Injury or Death. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with any information about this investigation is asked to contact the Apple Valley Police Station at (760) 240-7400 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call the We-Tip Hotline at 844-909-3006, text REPORT to 844-909-3006, or provide information at the link: https://mobile.catapultems.com/sbcsd/Sites
Refer: Taylor Reynolds
Station: Apple Valley
Phone No: (760) 240-7428
Case No. 182604709
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino Sheriff-Coroner Department
