LOS ANGELES, CA – A 28-year-old man has been charged in connection with a road rage incident that resulted in the death of a 16-year-old cyclist near BMO Stadium in Exposition Park days before Thanksgiving, authorities said.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) identified the suspect as Jonathan Antonio Rodriguez, who now faces charges of murder, felony hit-and-run, and use of a deadly weapon in the commission of a felony.
Incident Overview
The victim, Jonathan Flores, was among a group of about 40 teen bicyclists riding south on Figueroa Street on the afternoon of Nov. 22, when an altercation occurred between the group and the driver of a Honda sedan, according to CHP officials.
Witnesses reported that the driver followed the cyclists into the BMO Stadium parking lot, where he struck Flores with his vehicle before fleeing the scene. Authorities believe Flores was not involved in the initial dispute.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ruled Flores’s death a homicide, citing multiple blunt force injuries.
Investigation and Charges
On the evening of Nov. 23, CHP detectives executed a search warrant at a residence linked to Rodriguez. Investigators confirmed that Rodriguez was driving the Honda at the time of the collision.
Rodriguez was formally charged on Nov. 28 by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. His bail has been set at $2 million.
“On behalf of the CHP, I extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones mourning this tragic loss during the holidays,” said CHP Chief Chris Margaris. “We stand with you in this time of grief and are actively working to bring the person responsible to justice.”
The incident has prompted renewed calls for safer roadways and stricter measures to prevent road rage incidents. Advocacy groups have emphasized the need for vigilance and accountability, particularly in areas with high pedestrian and cyclist traffic.
Flores’s family, reeling from the tragedy, has not issued a public statement but is reportedly working with local officials and community members to raise awareness about cyclist safety and road rage.
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has additional information to contact the California Highway Patrol.
Further updates will be provided as the case proceeds through the judicial system.
