A Missed Red Light
On March 2, 2020, a 36-year-old woman was allegedly drunk driving when she crashed into another vehicle in Highland City. Ultimately, this crash resulted in the death of a 27-year-old single mother.
Rachel Leah Hibbert reportedly blew through a red traffic signal and collided with Crystal Janell Reed’s vehicle, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. Following the collision, Reed was found in critical condition and was transported to Loma Linda University Medical Center for treatment; she soon succumbed to her injuries. Hibbert remained at the scene and cooperated with the officers. After medical evaluation, she was later taken into custody. The Sheriff’s Department statement states that she was “found to be driving while under the influence and was booked at the West Valley Detention Center for murder.”
It is clear that something was not right when the accident happened; someone was intoxicated and it led to another person’s death. However, during a hearing on March 4, Hibbert pleaded not guilty to three felony charges: gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, DUI alcohol/drugs causing bodily injuries, and driving under the influence of alcohol. The judge set bail at $250,000, and Hibbert promptly posted bail the following day. According to court documents, she is scheduled to return to court on April 9.
Hibbert’s attorney Michael A. Scafiddi informed the Daily Press of his inability to speak on the case but did express how “greatly saddened by the family’s loss” he was. He assured that they were in his thoughts and prayers.
The Heartfelt Response to the Case
After finding out that Hibbert is “free and out on bail”, the Reed family reacted saying that their mourning of Crystal Janell Reed has since intensified.
Crystal Reed’s loved ones have since set up a roadside memorial at the intersection in Highland where Reed sadly passed. The tribute includes an array of candles, flowers, and balloons shaped like the letter ‘C’ with signs that read “We Love You” and “Rest Peacefully Crystal”.
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