Ronda Ellen Duke Obituary, Death – Ronda Ellen Duke, 46, was identified as the victim killed in a tragic incident involving a car fleeing police on the South Side, according to the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office. Duke died from blunt force injuries after being struck on January 14 during a police pursuit.
The events began as detectives conducted a narcotics investigation in the area. The subject of the investigation, 19-year-old Leo Pinero, fled the scene in a vehicle when officers attempted to apprehend him. Police reports state that despite efforts by marked patrol units to stop Pinero in the 900 block of Pyron Avenue, he refused to comply and sped away.
The San Antonio Police Department’s Eagle helicopter was deployed to monitor Pinero’s movements as he drove toward Pleasanton Road. However, Pinero lost control of his vehicle, crashing into a guardrail and striking Duke, who was walking on a nearby sidewalk. The crash proved fatal for Duke, whose death was later ruled an accident by the medical examiner.
After the crash, Pinero attempted to flee the scene on foot but was quickly apprehended by law enforcement. He now faces charges of murder and evading arrest as the investigation into the incident continues.
Duke’s death highlights the devastating consequences of reckless actions during police pursuits. The case remains under review as authorities work to piece together all the details surrounding the tragic event.