Gavin Hinkey Obituary, Death – A tragic crash in Riverside County claimed the life of a young man and left a woman hospitalized after their vehicle collided with a sheriff’s patrol SUV, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The collision happened around 10 a.m. on Saturday at the intersection of Cherry Valley Boulevard and Roberts Street. CHP reported that the crash involved a 2018 Tesla Model 3 and a 2018 Ford Explorer patrol vehicle operated by a Riverside County Sheriff’s deputy.
Authorities said the deputy, a 41-year-old assigned to the sheriff’s Cabazon station, was responding to an active service call at the time. His emergency lights and sirens were activated as he traveled westbound along Cherry Valley Boulevard toward the intersection with Roberts Street.
At the same time, the Tesla, driven by 21-year-old Gavin Hinkey of Cherry Valley, was stopped at a stop sign on Roberts Street. According to CHP’s preliminary findings, Hinkey attempted to make a left turn as the patrol vehicle approached. The sheriff’s SUV then struck the Tesla broadside. The impact was severe enough that Hinkey was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Tesla’s passenger, identified as 20-year-old Madeline Fox of Cherry Valley, sustained serious injuries in the crash. She was rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment and, as of Sunday, remained hospitalized. Officials have not provided an update on her condition but confirmed her injuries were considered major.
The sheriff’s deputy also sustained injuries, though CHP described them as minor. He was reportedly not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, which raised questions about potential safety concerns. His name has not been released by authorities.
CHP investigators have stated that impairment from drugs or alcohol does not appear to be a factor in the collision. However, they emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing as they continue to review the circumstances surrounding the crash. This includes examining vehicle speeds, the visibility of the patrol SUV’s lights and sirens, and whether the Tesla driver had adequate time to yield.
The loss of Hinkey has left the Cherry Valley community reeling, particularly given his young age and the sudden nature of the accident. Friends and family members are mourning his passing while also hoping for the recovery of Fox, who continues to fight through her injuries.
The CHP’s San Gorgonio Pass office has asked for the public’s assistance as they work to piece together a full account of what happened. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information is encouraged to contact their office at 951-846-5300.
The crash underscores the dangers of intersections, even when emergency vehicles are involved, and serves as a reminder of the importance of heightened awareness when patrol units with active sirens and lights are approaching. For now, the focus remains on supporting the victims’ families and determining how this devastating loss occurred.
