Eric John Williams Obituary, Death – Orange County authorities have identified the cyclist who tragically lost his life in a hit-and-run crash in Huntington Beach on Monday morning. The Orange County Coroner’s Office confirmed that the victim was 45-year-old Eric John Williams, a resident of Garden Grove.
According to reports, the incident occurred around 7 a.m. near the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Newland Street. Williams was struck by a 2006 gold Mercedes E-Class while riding his bicycle. Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene and declared Williams deceased. The collision was immediately recognized as a serious traffic incident due to the severity of the injuries involved.
In addition to Williams, two other cyclists were involved in the crash. Both sustained significant injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities described their conditions as serious but stable, noting that they received prompt medical attention.
Following the crash, law enforcement officers conducted a search to locate the driver responsible for the incident. The driver was identified as 43-year-old Amber Calderon of Long Beach. She was apprehended approximately half a mile from the crash site after ultimately stopping her vehicle. Calderon was arrested on multiple charges, including felony hit-and-run, gross vehicular manslaughter, and possession of narcotics, according to police officials.
The Huntington Beach Police Department, together with other local agencies, has launched a full investigation into the crash. Authorities are examining the sequence of events leading up to the collision, reviewing traffic cameras, and interviewing witnesses to determine how the incident occurred. The investigation is ongoing, and officials have indicated that more information will be released as it becomes available.
The tragic event has shocked the local community, particularly cycling groups and residents in Huntington Beach. Williams, described by friends and family as an active and enthusiastic cyclist, had been riding along his usual route when the collision occurred. Tributes and messages of sympathy have been shared on social media, honoring his memory and expressing condolences to his family and loved ones.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of road safety for both drivers and cyclists. They continue to remind the public to remain vigilant, adhere to traffic laws, and take precautions to prevent accidents. The crash has also prompted renewed attention to the need for awareness and caution in areas with heavy bicycle and pedestrian traffic, particularly along busy thoroughfares such as Pacific Coast Highway.
Law enforcement officials praised the swift response of first responders at the scene, who immediately provided medical care and secured the area. Their prompt actions ensured that the injured cyclists received necessary treatment and that the scene was preserved for investigative purposes.
The Orange County Coroner’s Office, along with police investigators, will continue to provide updates on the ongoing investigation. Community members are being asked to come forward with any information or witness accounts that could assist authorities in understanding the circumstances of the crash.
Meanwhile, friends, family, and the cycling community are mourning the loss of Eric John Williams. Many have highlighted his passion for cycling and his dedication to staying active, noting that his death is a profound loss for the local community. The focus now remains on supporting the injured cyclists, assisting the victim’s family, and ensuring a thorough investigation to hold those responsible accountable.
The Huntington Beach Police Department has assured the public that the case is being handled with full attention and transparency, and that all necessary legal and safety procedures are being followed as the investigation continues.