Shareece Jones Obituary, Death – A tragic incident earlier this week in Victorville has resulted in the death of a 49-year-old woman who was struck by a vehicle allegedly driven by an intoxicated man. Authorities have since identified the victim as Shareece Jones, a resident of Victorville. She was pronounced dead shortly after the crash, which occurred on Tuesday night around 9:00 p.m.
The fatal collision took place at the intersection of Reno Loop Road and Sorrel Way. According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner’s Office, Jones was on foot at the time she was hit by a Chevrolet Suburban. The SUV was being driven by George Batiste Thenarse, a 50-year-old man from Barstow. Details about the circumstances leading up to the crash have not yet been released by law enforcement.
Emergency personnel quickly responded to the scene and transported Jones to Victor Valley Global Medical Center in Victorville. Despite efforts to save her, she died from her injuries at the hospital.
The Victorville Police Department launched an immediate investigation into the crash. After conducting an on-site assessment and further evaluations, deputies determined that Thenarse was driving under the influence at the time of the collision. As a result, he was arrested and booked on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) and vehicular manslaughter.
Authorities have indicated that formal criminal charges against Thenarse are still pending as the investigation continues. They have not disclosed whether field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, or toxicology reports played a role in their determination of intoxication. Additionally, it remains unclear how fast the vehicle was traveling or whether any other contributing factors were involved in the fatal collision.
Law enforcement is urging the public to come forward with any information that may shed light on what happened. Individuals who may have witnessed the incident, or who have relevant details, are encouraged to contact the Victorville Police Department. The department’s phone number is (760) 241-2911. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Dispatch can also be reached at (760) 956-5001 for those willing to report information directly.
For those wishing to provide tips while remaining anonymous, the authorities have directed individuals to use the We-Tip hotline at (800) 782-7463. This hotline is available for community members who prefer not to disclose their identity but want to assist in the investigation.
The loss of Shareece Jones has deeply impacted the Victorville community, where pedestrian safety remains a growing concern. Pedestrian-related crashes involving suspected impaired drivers continue to raise alarms among residents and public safety advocates. While this case remains under investigation, it serves as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by impaired driving.
George Batiste Thenarse remains in custody as authorities move forward with the legal process. Depending on the outcomes of toxicology reports, witness testimony, and other investigative findings, he could face serious charges including felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter. If convicted, these charges could carry significant penalties under California law.
Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of a life that ended far too soon. Friends, family, and neighbors of Jones are left coping with the sudden and tragic nature of her death. Advocates for road safety have taken this moment to emphasize the importance of responsible driving and the dangers of driving under the influence—whether of alcohol, drugs, or other impairing substances.
As authorities continue to gather more information, they are expected to release updates about the case, particularly concerning formal charges and further investigative findings. The Victorville Police Department and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office are jointly handling the investigation.
Anyone with surveillance footage, dashboard camera video, or other evidence related to the incident is also encouraged to step forward. Law enforcement officials emphasize that even small details could help paint a clearer picture of what happened and provide closure for the victim’s family.
In summary, 49-year-old Shareece Jones of Victorville was killed after being struck by a Chevrolet Suburban allegedly driven by an intoxicated driver. The incident occurred at the intersection of Reno Loop Road and Sorrel Way around 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday. The driver, George Batiste Thenarse of Barstow, was arrested on suspicion of DUI and vehicular manslaughter, though the full circumstances of the crash are still being investigated.
Officials continue to seek witnesses and information to aid in their ongoing probe. The case has reignited conversations in Victorville about impaired driving and the need for enhanced safety measures to protect pedestrians.