A devastating incident unfolded in Norco, Riverside County, on May 12, 2025, when a man lost his life during a violent carjacking at a local gas station.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department reported that the victim was fatally injured after being dragged and ejected from his vehicle by a suspected car thief.
Authorities have detained a suspect, and the investigation is ongoing.
This tragic event has shaken the tight-knit community of Norco, raising concerns about public safety and crime in the region.
The Incident: A Violent Carjacking at an ARCO Gas Station
The incident occurred at an ARCO gas station located on the 4600 block of Hidden Valley Parkway in Norco, a city known for its equestrian culture and small-town charm.
According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, deputies responded to reports of a vehicle theft around 2:30 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect entered the victim’s vehicle while the owner was still inside, possibly in the backseat.
As the suspect attempted to flee the scene, the victim was caught in the vehicle, dragged for approximately one mile, and ultimately ejected onto the roadway.
Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, the victim succumbed to his injuries.
The victim’s identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
Witnesses described a chaotic and horrifying scene.
One bystander, who wished to remain anonymous, told local reporters, “It happened so fast.
The car sped off, and you could hear screams.
We didn’t realize someone was being dragged until it was too late.”
The suspect continued to drive the stolen vehicle until it was later recovered by authorities.
Suspect in Custody: What We Know
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that a suspect has been detained in connection with the carjacking.
Details about the suspect’s identity, including their name, age, and criminal history, have not been disclosed as the investigation is ongoing.
Authorities have not yet clarified whether the suspect was armed or if the carjacking was premeditated.
Sheriff’s deputies located the stolen vehicle shortly after the incident, leading to the suspect’s apprehension.
The department has urged anyone with additional information to contact the Norco Sheriff’s Station at (951) 270-5673.
Investigators are also reviewing surveillance footage from the ARCO station and nearby businesses to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.
Norco’s Response: A Community in Mourning
Norco, often referred to as “Horsetown USA,” is a close-knit community of approximately 27,000 residents.
The violent nature of this carjacking has left residents reeling, with many expressing shock and grief over the loss of life.
Local leaders and residents are calling for increased safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“This is not the Norco we know,” said Maria Gonzalez, a longtime resident and owner of a nearby business.
“We’re a community that looks out for each other.
To have something this tragic happen here—it’s heartbreaking.”
Norco Mayor Greg Newton issued a statement on May 12, 2025, expressing condolences to the victim’s family and pledging support for the ongoing investigation.
“Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of the victim,” Newton said.
“We are working closely with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department to ensure justice is served and to address safety concerns in our city.”
Carjacking Trends in Riverside County: A Growing Concern?
This incident is not an isolated event in Riverside County, where carjackings and vehicle thefts have been a growing concern in recent years.
According to data from the California Department of Justice, Riverside County reported 1,247 vehicle thefts in 2023, with carjackings accounting for a smaller but significant portion of those crimes.
The violent nature of this particular case—resulting in a fatality—underscores the dangers associated with such incidents.
In a similar case in 2020, a Los Angeles man, Paul Martinez, was arrested in Norco after attempting to carjack a vehicle at a convenience store on Hidden Valley Parkway, just blocks from the site of the 2025 incident.
Martinez’s attempt was thwarted when he grabbed the wrong car keys, and he was apprehended after a short foot pursuit.
While that incident ended without serious injury, it highlights the recurring issue of vehicle-related crimes in the area.
Nationwide, carjackings have seen a surge in recent years, with the Bureau of Justice Statistics reporting a 20% increase in incidents between 2019 and 2023.
Urban and suburban areas alike have been affected, with gas stations and convenience stores often targeted due to their accessibility and the presence of distracted drivers.
Safety Tips to Prevent Carjackings
In light of this tragedy, law enforcement officials are reminding residents to remain vigilant and take precautions to avoid becoming victims of carjacking.
Here are some key safety tips:
- Lock Your Vehicle: Always lock your car, even when stepping away briefly, such as at a gas station or convenience store.
- Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Avoid distractions like using your phone when entering or exiting your vehicle.
- Keep Keys Secure: Never leave keys in the ignition or unattended inside the vehicle.
- Park in Well-Lit Areas: Choose parking spots in well-lit, high-traffic areas to deter potential thieves.
- Trust Your Instincts: If you feel uneasy or notice suspicious activity, leave the area and contact authorities.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department also encourages residents to report suspicious behavior immediately by calling 911 or the non-emergency line at (951) 776-1099.
Addressing Crime in Riverside County
This tragic carjacking has reignited discussions about public safety and crime prevention in Riverside County.
Community advocates are calling for increased police patrols, better lighting at gas stations and commercial areas, and educational campaigns to raise awareness about vehicle theft prevention.
Dr. Emily Carter, a criminologist at the University of California, Riverside, emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach to address violent crime.
“Carjackings are often crimes of opportunity,” Carter said.
“While law enforcement plays a critical role, community engagement, urban planning, and economic support can help address the root causes of such incidents.”
In response to the incident, the Norco City Council has scheduled a special meeting on May 20, 2025, to discuss public safety initiatives, including potential partnerships with local businesses to enhance security measures.
Authorities are seeking information from the public to assist in the investigation.
Anyone who witnessed the carjacking or has relevant details is urged to contact the Norco Sheriff’s Station at (951) 270-5673.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department website or by calling Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS.
The Norco community is also coming together to support the victim’s family.
A crowdfunding campaign is being organized by local residents to help cover funeral expenses, with details to be shared on the city’s official website and social media channels.
If you or someone you know has been affected by this incident, resources are available through the Riverside County Victim Services Division at (951) 955-5450.
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