Bakersfield, CA – Authorities have identified Antonio Enrique Arjona, 41, as the pedestrian killed in a hit-and-run collision on March 29, 2024, on Buck Owens Boulevard, according to KBAK.
According to the Kern County Coroner’s Office, Arjona was struck in the 3200 block of Buck Owens Boulevard at approximately 9:20 PM. He suffered severe injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Bakersfield Police reported that Arjona was in the northbound lanes of the roadway, outside of a crosswalk, when a northbound white hatchback struck him. The driver fled the scene without stopping to render aid.
After months of investigation, Bakersfield Police, in coordination with the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, arrested 61-year-old Floyd Luster on January 9, 2025. Authorities said they received information that helped them identify Luster as the suspect. He was located and taken into custody without incident before being booked into Lerdo Jail.
Luster is accused of felony hit-and-run for leaving the scene of the collision. As of Friday afternoon, Luster was no longer listed in custody, and charges had not yet been formally filed against him.
An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause and manner of Arjona’s death.
California Hit-and-Run Laws
California Law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop their vehicle, notify law enforcement, and exchange insurance information with others involved. Failure to do so, considered to be a “hit-and-run,” is a misdemeanor in cases of property damage and a felony when someone has been injured.
Wrongful Death Claims
Even if a fatal accident doesn’t lead to criminal charges, families who lose a loved one can still file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This compensation can help cover medical bills, funeral costs, and lost income that the family depended on.
However, insurance companies will always try to pay as little as possible, making it difficult for families to receive the full amount they deserve. So, having an experienced personal injury attorney is essential to receive fair compensation and justice for your loved one.
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, feel free to contact Maison Law for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.