Tragedy Strikes on State Route 74
PERRIS, CA — A devastating head-on collision claimed the life of 49-year-old Ambrocio Cota of Nuevo on Tuesday evening, leaving an entire community in mourning. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department Coroner’s Bureau confirmed his identity following the deadly crash, which occurred shortly before 6:45 p.m. along State Route 74 near Joppe Avenue.
According to California Highway Patrol Officer Mike Lassig, Cota was driving a 2010 Lexus IS250 eastbound at an undetermined speed when, for reasons still unknown, his vehicle veered left, crossed the raised concrete divider, and entered the westbound lanes. In that moment, a 2024 Chevrolet Express van, driven by a 23-year-old Perris man with a 59-year-old passenger, was approaching from the opposite direction. The two vehicles collided head-on with violent force, both suffering catastrophic front-end damage.
The Lexus continued into a chain-link fence just north of the roadway, mangled and smoking. Despite the rapid arrival of CHP officers, firefighters, and paramedics, Cota was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Life Remembered and a Community in Shock
The loss of Ambrocio Cota has sent ripples through the community of Nuevo, where he was known as a hardworking, dedicated man with a warm heart. Friends describe him as someone who always greeted others with kindness and never hesitated to lend a helping hand. His sudden death has left loved ones grappling with shock and disbelief.
Neighbors have spoken about his deep connection to his family, and how much he valued spending time with them. “Ambrocio was one of those people you could always count on,” said a friend. “It’s impossible to believe he’s gone.”
As the investigation continues, many are left with questions — about what caused the Lexus to cross the divider, and how such a tragedy could happen in an instant. The other driver and passenger survived, but the impact of the crash will forever be etched into their lives as well.
Investigators Seek Answers and Witnesses
Authorities issued a SIG alert following the crash, closing westbound lanes of State Route 74 for over two hours while crews worked to clear debris and gather evidence. Traffic was diverted as investigators examined tire marks, vehicle damage, and the scene’s layout to piece together the final moments before impact.
The California Highway Patrol’s Temecula Area Office is leading the investigation and has urged anyone with information to come forward. Witness accounts could be critical in determining what led to the Lexus’s sudden lane change and fatal collision.
In the meantime, the Cota family is facing the unimaginable task of saying goodbye to a loved one taken far too soon. The community’s thoughts and prayers remain with them as they navigate this painful chapter. Flowers and candles now rest near the crash site, a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of treasuring every moment with those we love.
Witnesses are encouraged to contact CHP Temecula at (951) 466-4300. Even the smallest detail could help bring clarity to this heartbreaking event.
