MURRIETA, Calif. — Authorities have identified the man who was killed in a single-vehicle crash Wednesday night in Murrieta. The Riverside County Coroner’s Office confirmed the victim as 45-year-old Rafael Ortega of Corona.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash happened around 9:20 p.m. on northbound Interstate 15, just south of Clinton Keith Road. Ortega was driving a 2005 Ford F-150 when he lost control of the vehicle, veering off the roadway to the right. The truck traveled up a dirt embankment before overturning.
Investigators said Ortega, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected from the vehicle and suffered fatal injuries. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.
CHP Captain Chris Hamilton extended condolences to Ortega’s family and emphasized the importance of vehicle safety, reminding drivers that seatbelts save lives.
“The CHP would like to remind the motoring public to always wear your seatbelt. Seatbelts can save lives and prevent injuries,” Hamilton said in a statement.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
In loving memory of Rafael Ortega, a beloved member of the Corona community whose life was tragically cut short. May his family and friends find peace and strength during this difficult time.