John Dwayne Ross Obituary, Death – The Kern County Coroner’s Office has identified the victim of a fatal hit-and-run crash that occurred on the Chester Avenue bridge as 48-year-old John Dwayne Ross from Bakersfield.
On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, Bakersfield Police responded to a crash reported on the 4200 block of Chester Avenue, specifically on the Chester Avenue bridge. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered Ross lying on the southbound sidewalk, suffering from severe injuries. Despite attempts to provide assistance, Ross was declared dead at the scene.
Another individual was also involved in the incident. This second pedestrian sustained minor injuries after being struck by debris during the collision.
The police investigation revealed that Ross and the other man were walking southbound along the bridge when they were struck from behind by a pickup truck. Following the collision, the driver of the vehicle fled the scene without stopping. Authorities launched a search and soon identified the suspected driver through a surveillance camera system known as Flock Safety. The suspect, 35-year-old Bobby Lemons, was apprehended and arrested. He was booked into the Kern County Jail on charges of felony hit-and-run resulting in death.
In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was created to help cover funeral expenses for Ross. The fundraising page described the emotional toll on his family, with a message that read, “While my family and I are trying to process this unexpected loss, we are also stressed by the costs of laying my father to rest. Your support means the world to us. Whether through a donation or by sharing this fundraiser, every gesture helps.”