Jesus Torrez Loya Jr. Obituary, Death – Authorities have confirmed the identity of a man who tragically lost his life following a traffic incident on Norris Road. The Kern County Coroner’s Office has identified the individual as 31-year-old Jesus Torrez Loya Jr., a resident of Bakersfield. Local law enforcement has been working to piece together the circumstances surrounding the incident, which occurred on the evening of Thursday, October 9, 2025.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that officers responded to a call at approximately 8:55 p.m., regarding a collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian on Norris Road, east of Stockton Avenue. According to preliminary information from CHP, a 27-year-old man from Bakersfield was driving a 2010 silver Toyota Corolla eastbound along Norris Road at an estimated speed of 45 miles per hour in the number one lane.
For reasons that remain under investigation, Torrez Loya Jr. was crossing southbound on Norris Road from the north shoulder, at a location that was not a designated crosswalk. The CHP stated that the driver of the vehicle was unable to avoid the pedestrian, resulting in the collision. Emergency responders were immediately notified, but Torrez Loya Jr. was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The driver of the Toyota stopped shortly after the collision and has been fully cooperative with authorities during the ongoing investigation. Law enforcement has emphasized that there is no indication at this time of any criminal intent, and the circumstances are being carefully reviewed to understand how the tragic incident occurred.
CHP investigators noted that it remains unclear whether substances, such as alcohol or drugs, played any role in the crash. They have also highlighted that traffic safety and pedestrian awareness are important factors in preventing similar incidents in the future. The department has expressed condolences to the family and friends of Torrez Loya Jr. and has urged the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution while traveling on busy roadways.
The Kern County community has reacted to the news with sadness, noting that such incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of road safety for both drivers and pedestrians. Local officials and law enforcement are encouraging residents to use designated crosswalks, follow traffic signals, and remain aware of their surroundings to reduce the risk of accidents.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident and are reviewing available evidence to better understand what led to this tragic event. CHP has stated that additional details will be released once confirmed, and the public can expect updates as the investigation progresses.
Traffic safety advocates have also underscored the role of community awareness and education in preventing accidents. Drivers are reminded to remain alert, especially in areas where pedestrians may be present, while pedestrians are encouraged to cross streets at marked crosswalks and to be cautious when visibility is limited.
As the investigation continues, the Kern County Coroner’s Office and CHP have expressed their commitment to providing transparent updates and ensuring that any relevant information is communicated to the public. The authorities aim to balance the need for thorough investigation with sensitivity toward the family and community affected by the loss.
The tragic passing of Jesus Torrez Loya Jr. has left a noticeable impact on Bakersfield, prompting both community members and local officials to reflect on the importance of road safety. While the investigation seeks to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident, the broader message remains clear: both drivers and pedestrians share responsibility for ensuring safety on roadways.
Officials continue to investigate the crash thoroughly, reviewing all factors involved. Residents are encouraged to remain cautious and considerate on the roads, and to support each other in fostering safer travel conditions throughout Kern County.
