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1 dead, three injured in motorcycle group crash

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The fatal collision occurred around 3:10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19 on Elizabeth Lake Road, just east of Godde Hill Road. (Photo by LUIS MEZA)
The fatal collision occurred around 3:10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19 on Elizabeth Lake Road, just east of Godde Hill Road. (Photo by LUIS MEZA)
19-year-old Jose Gutierrez was booked at the Palmdale Station on $50,000 bail. (LUIS MEZA)
19-year-old Jose Gutierrez was booked at the Palmdale Station on $50,000 bail. (LUIS MEZA)

ANTELOPE VALLEY – A 58-year-old motorcyclist was killed and three others suffered major injuries when a Palmdale teen driver crashed head-on into a group of motorcyclists on a local two-lane road, authorities said.

The fatal collision occurred around 3:10 p.m. Saturday on Elizabeth Lake Road, just east of Godde Hill Road, according to a California Highway Patrol report.

CHP officials said 19-year-old Palmdale resident Jose Gutierrez was recklessly driving a 2001 Infiniti G20 eastbound on Elizabeth Lake Road when the teen lost control of his vehicle and veered into the oncoming lane.

(Photo by LUIS MEZA)
(Photo by LUIS MEZA)

The Infitini collided head-on with three motorcycles headed westbound on Elizabeth Lake Road.

Peter Volden, 58, of Oxnard was killed in the collision, according to the CHP report. Volden was riding a 2006 Yamaha XV 1900.

Patty McBee, 55, and Richard McBee, 60, both of Moorpark, suffered major injuries in the collision, according to the CHP report. The pair was riding on a 2012 Harley-Davidson.

Also critically injured in the collision was 41-year-old motorcyclist Danny Rincon of Westlake Village, who was riding a 2012 Yamaha.

Peter Volden
Peter Volden

Gutierrez was arrested in connection with the crash and jailed in lieu of $50,000 bail, according to the Palmdale Station jail. The teen is due in court Tuesday to face possible charges.

Volden had been riding for about six years and had worked for the federal government for more than 30 years, according to his member page on the Motorcycle Riders Club of America website.

UPDATED 10/22/13: Jose Gutierrez has been charged with manslaughter and three other felony counts. He faces up to eight years in state prison, if convicted. Read more at: Teen charged with manslaughter in motorcycle crash

Editor’s Note 10/23/13: Family members of the victims have contacted us and requested that we disable further commenting on this article. We have decided to honor this request. Thank you in advance for respecting this decision.

UPDATED 12/4/13: Palmdale teen ordered to trial in fatal motorcycle crash

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Filed Under: Crime/ Safety

164 comments for "1 dead, three injured in motorcycle group crash"

  1. Family members of the victims have contacted us and requested that we disable further commenting on this article. We have decided to honor this request. Thank you in advance for respecting this decision.

  2. I am requesting that Everyone making comments STOP! I am the Son of Peter and the arguments you are having on this article are a disgust. You should all be shamed that you started a flame war over the article my Father is is. Unless you have something positive to state about my Father, then you can get the [removed] out of this article.

    Son of Peter,

    Joshua J. Volden

  3. I like that our area is so attractive to motorcyclists/bicyclists. Everyone needs to look out for each other and drive/ride in a safe and courteous manner. There is no taking back what happened, which is the reason to always be aware and in control.

    • As a local bicycle rider I agree. Unfortunately vehicle drivers look at anyone on two wheels as an inconvenience and dont always drive safe or courteous.

  4. A tragedy for all. Condolences to family, friends, and loved ones. I live up the street and drive that road daily. Please remember to be safe people.

  5. Hello Jose’s Family.. You should create a fund to raise money for Jose’s legal defense cost.
    I’ll be the first one to contribute.
    Whoever knows his Family, please ask them to open a bank account where we can deposit our contributions. All my co-workers and myself are waiting.
    This was an accident PEOPLE.. Yes, an Accident.
    This KID was not driving drunk.
    How MANY Bikers ride their bikes DRUNK? Almost every one.
    Did they test them for alcohol, or DRUGS? Obviously NOT, because they are different race.

    Anyway… Jose.. Even We don’t know you, we are here to help YOU.

    • It is completely ridiculous to make a generalization about bikers saying that almost every one rides drunk. Do you know every person who rides a motorcycle? Also, why would anyone test the blood alcohol content of the individuals who were injured? They are guilty of nothing other than riding responsibly and being mowed down by what the Sheriff’s Department has confirmed was a reckless driver. And please don’t try to make this about race. The fact that this kid is Hispanic has absolutely nothing to do with anything. A white kid would be just as guilty as Jose is in this situation.

      • Eric..
        I am making my comments based on FACTS.
        Many people are making comments about this kid driving irresponsible?
        People.. You need to grow up.
        How many motorcyclists ride their motorcycle like crazy on Freeways and Highways, even on city Streets? They think they own the road.
        Too early to believe this kid was driving irresponsible.
        About your comment why the other riders should be tested for alcohol in their blood…. It is LEGAL to request a blood test on EVERY person involved on an accident or crime. Yes, EVERYONE involved. I won’t be surprised if the motorcyclists were intoxicated.
        I am sorry, but this should be part of the investigation.

        • Jose’s family is very interested and will be thankful with any kind of help you and your coworkers can provide!!!!!

        • You’re just proving my point by making yet another generalization about people who ride motorcycles. Just because you may have seen a few riding recklessly at some point in your life doesn’t mean that any of the riders involved in this incident did anything wrong. That would be like if I were to assume that you are a reckless driver because both you and Jose drive automobiles. Completely baseless and incorrect. And let’s just indulge your theory for a second and say that these bikers were actually intoxicated. Yes, that would absolutely be wrong and they should be prosecuted for that. However, if that were true, why hasn’t the Sheriff’s Department placed any of them under arrest?So far, I’ve only seen one person in handcuffs as a result of this incident and he wasn’t riding a motorcycle.

        • You are out of your mind Jesse. Have you spoken to the eye witnesses who saw the entire thing unfold? Yes, everyone involved will have there BAC tested. The bikers involved were all tested at the hospital, it is part of the investigation. The only thing you are correct about is that is was an accident. An accident caused by the reckless driving of this individual. Regardless, you must pay for the mistakes you have made. The individuals race had nothing to do with it. You are a poor excuse for a human being pulling the race card in 2013. And to say “almost all bikers ride intoxicated” makes you look very unintelligent and is completely false. And guess what! Be surprised then! Because none of the bikers involved were intoxicated, and neither was the driver of the sedan. You have no idea what you are taking about…..

    • Jesse,

      You are going to pull the “race” card??? Really??? So mature of you. This issue has nothing to do with race or age or drugs or anything else. My hope is that Jose has learned a valuable lesson from a horrible and tragic accident. Hopefully he will be able to spread his wisdom in the future to other drivers. He will have to live with what happened for the rest of his life and I am sure that is more punishment to endure than the law can give him. His life will never be the same and from what people say here in his favor, sounds to me like he is a good kid, willing to take responsibility for his actions that day. We all need to allow friends and family to be upset for the loss of Peter. Whatever it takes to get them through this. In time I am sure most will see the situation for what it is and forgive. May take longer for some than others. I truly hope time will heal here because it would be even more tragic for people to live so angry for the rest of their lives. I can only hope something positive comes from such a horrible situation as this and nobody should be bashing anyone on either side.
      People are suffering enough without all the mud slinging and name calling. Especially leave the race card out of this because that just makes you sound like an uneducated person with nothing else worthy of saying on behalf of Jose.

      • Jennifer…To be honest… Everyone involved have learned a lesson…
        Jose…Have learned to become a responsible driver.
        Bike Riders… Have learned to respect the speed limit and the traffice laws….

    • You really got to be kidding! You are so stupid I am amazed that you even know how to use a computer! I have been riding for 45 years and although there are many bike riders that do stupid things….such as driving drunk or riding like a fool, as there are other type of vehicle drivers. But take note that this man was 58 years old, not a 18 year old that believes he is invincible as most young people do. As a FACT most cage (car,truck) drivers are seldom charged with reckless driving etc. that results in injuring or killing a motorcycle rider! If the drive is charge they are also seldom charge with anything more than reckless driving. the bottom line is; one you don’t know what you are talking about, you are a hater of motorcycles that believe only you have the right to the road, and one of the most idiot persons that submitted his comment. I would love to have a non-violent face to face discussion about your perspective. WIth that said, assuming you might have working hours, I will be glad to meet you for that discussion anytime, anywhere of your choosing. I live in the Ventura CA area, so just let me know if you are close and would be willing to meet. I am 66 so you should have very little to fear Although I already know you are a coward, just post that time and place and I will be there…no excuses…so you up to it? Just post time and place. See you there….Jesse….huh?
      STUPID STUPID STUPID!!!

    • Would it be fair for me to assume that Jose was in the country without green card because he is Mexican. That’s what your doing for Mr. Peter V?olden, assuming he was drunk because he was on a motor cycle. I have known Peter Volden for many years, he was a good man so you might want to think before opening your mouth. Kent from WISCONSIN!!!!!

  6. I had the privilege to work with Peter for 20+ years with the US Government, and now we just lost an amazing Cat, thanks for all the great memories, (SNI)/ (Shops).
    My Dad road and well he is not with us today but I’ll say a prayer and have him track you down and show you around a bit.
    God Bless you and your Family too!!
    Bill

  7. My condolences to the victims of this horrible accident…It is safe to say that speed was probably the primary cause of this tragic situation…as someone who frequents this road quite often I can’t tell you how many times I have had someone on my rear just pushing me to go faster on such a hazardous road to begin with and they they are usually the ones coming off of Bouquet Canyon…put more patrols out and start issuing speeding tickets and perhaps some of this speeding will slow down so that another situation like this one can be avoided!

  8. Cheryl, Amanda, Josh & Volden Family – My condolences to you and your family during this tragic loss. Peter was such a great guy, had fun memories of cooking with y’all at the Moose. My prayers are with you. G-d Bless. Sarah Kisella (Roberts) Acworth, GA

  9. Peter for the past 30 years I was fortunate enough to know you, and work with you. You were a man of such detail about safety and concern for getting the job done right, I always admired this about you. You steadfastly, without wanting the recognition, insured things were top notch, sometimes at your own expense. I shall always remember you as a caring & compasionate person that loved life & laughter. I will miss you. My only regret, is ,that this young man never came to know you.

  10. Cheryl,

    My heart and prayers are with you. So sorry to hear about your family tragedy…
    God Bless!

  11. How can these things be called accidents? Jose may have not intended to harm or kill anyone but unless something major happened to the car right at that moment he did something he shouldn’t have.
    Doesn’t matter if he was texting, tired, changing the radio station, eating, etc. He was not in control of his car!
    He may not have done it on purpose but it was something that happened due to his actions & he is responsible for that.
    We have to make drivers take responsibility for driving & pay the price otherwise it will keep happening & get even worse.
    Enough of making excuses, not holding anyone responsible for their actions whether intentional or not!

  12. Too many kids don’t have respect for their automobile and think a car is just a toy they get to play with. But it could also have been just an unfortunate accident.

    We will have to wait for the results of the investigation before we know.

    My condolences to the family.

  13. It amazes me that you can kill someone with a car “accidently” and some people think it’s ok. If you have a firearm that accidently discharges and kills someone, you’re a murderer. Look folks, when you are behind the wheel of a car, you are driving a loaded gun with your finger on the trigger. Put cell phone, your double cheeseburger, and your big gulp down and pay attention to your driving! Never drive faster than traffic and/or road conditions allow, never drive impaired such as being sleepy, under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, and I promise you, you’ll never have an accident that’s your fault and get yourself in a situation that can ruin your life.

    • Another person thinking hes god like and that because the accident occurred he mustve been texting or eating and etc. Im 23 years old and this 40 something yr old white woman almost threw me and my 4 yr old while i was driving him off to preschool this morning all because SHE was talking on the phone and driving AND speeding thinking she would be able to cut me off where my road ended and turned into one, she sped up because she couldnt afford to have ONE car driving the regular speed limit in front of her. Stop making yourself sound ridiculous trying to make him a bad guy because acidents occur everywhere everyday. Because the young man took a life and lived you’re all quick to talk, but if it had been the other way around it wouldve been nothing more than an accident. Shame on you. Seriously.

      • we’re quick to talk because we all read the part about “recklessly driving a 2001 Infiniti G20 eastbound on Elizabeth Lake Road when the teen lost control of his vehicle and veered into the oncoming lane”.
        Or did you not bother to read that far? [removed]

  14. First things first , my condolences go out to every family involved it must be horrible to loose a family member this way. That being said jose is a good friend of mine and would never of had the intention to put him self in a situation as this one. He wasn’t under the influence of any mind ,vision impairing substances for that matter as well.
    Before people start screaming sentences and hate at my friend ,let the evidence, judge and jury set the example for the justice of ones situation.
    Being angry and in morning for a lost family member is one thing but to let that cloud your judgement on what should happen to him isn’t fair.
    Be fair , rational and let god bless everybody in the situation.

  15. EXCUSE ME!!!!!! that motor cycle driver who was killed was MY BROTHER!!!!!!! He had plenty of experience operating a motor cycle.. Besides.. it’s not the amount of time you ride.. it is how you ride..He was a very responsible driver and would not drink and drive. He always use the proper equipment.. I do not appreciate you saying anything of which you know nothing about.. He had just done a 1200 mile ride with several friends over the summer going through at least 4 states.. why would he ruin what he loved to do by doing something so totally stupid.. BACK OFF!!!!! AND .. he wasn’t riding a Harley.. the kind of bike makes no difference…
    Driving a little recklessly.. my god… DID YOU EVEN LOOK AT THE PHOTOS How could that amount of wreckage be cause by a little reckless driving…… he took the life of one person and more than likely will have taken the lives of others. I demand an apology in the name of my brother.!!!!!

    • Don’t bother with this site Sandy. The investigation will play out. He was driving recklessly…how else do you lose control at 3PM on a Saturday? Under the influence or not…driving recklessly and killing someone is Vehicular Manslaughter. I believe that corner is marked 25MPH…..

      • Actually, the Eastbound side of that curve has a hazard sign with a bent arrow and no speed indication. That means the implied speed for the curve is “as fast as is safe” up to the open road speed of 55 MPH. Unfortunately 55 is likely too fast for the corner, but it’s harder to write a ticket if a number isn’t posted. The following corner is posted 35 MPH, and really isn’t as bad of a curve.

        • You are correct….It was the other corner which is marked. Regardless, 3PM on a Saturday there were no visibility issues seeing the yellow signs. Good thing the prosecutors do not have to write a ticket, only prove in court that he was traveling at an “unsafe speed” for the corner. As a driver, you must be in control of your vehicle at all times…regardless of signage. (you see how I have not even referenced “distracted driving” ie, cell phone, drugs, alcohol as the cause, I dont need to as long as I can prove he was driving at a reckless speed for the corner)

          Now if the driver who caused the wreck wanted to go after the County of Los Angeles for unproper signage for the turn then he may have a case as well. Either way, horrible situation…..you should not be driving if you cannot control your vehicle. Especially if you travel the road as often as I assume he does considering he was coming home from work as was stated previously.

          • You are 100% incorrect. 4 felony counts of reckless driving proves he was not going 35. Good luck trying to convince the eye witnesses of that one ; )

          • At 35 MPH a blind person could make that turn..I drive this stretch of road every day..I see his skid marks….there is no way he was at 35 mph…ever hit your breaks hard enough to cause a skid st 35?? How long of a skid do you think you would get?? He also had enough speed to completely spin the car around and face the oposeing direction by the time it stopped… try to spin a car out with that kind of skid…35?? I don’t think so..the bikes were prolly at 35….I am saddened to hear the max he can get is ONLY 8 years…I hope they find some more things to charge him with

    • [removed] Just like you dont like how people are suggesting maybe your brother was going a little fast some of us dont like you speaking out of your behind on the young man. And bikers have been the cause for many car accidents as well, vehicles drivers looking control of the wheel trying to avoid a motorcyclist who may have cut them off and what not. And the young man is taking full responsibilities and even helped out as much as he could right after the accident. Unless you have an apology of your own then i would appreciate you keeping negative comments to yourself.

    • Let’s wait to conclude the investigation.
      Too early to have our own conclusions.
      Let’s wait to see the report how many times the riders and the Young kid have been involved in accidents, and the type of accidents.
      Also…Everything is based on their previous criminal convictions.
      If the Young Kid never been in trouble with the law, or if this was his first accident…The District Attorney will take this in consideration.

      Be patient people.

  16. And the young man was returning from work, the car belonged to his older sister, just like people dont know the biker people dont know the driver either.

  17. Reckless driving resulting in injury or death is a crime, not an accident, like so many of you people want to keep dismissing it as!

  18. My husband and I are avid riders. We ride that road quite often. I don’t think Jose intentionally crossed the lines and hit those poor people. I don’t understand where all the hate for him is coming from. This kid now has to live with the fact that he killed someone, in an accident. Accidents happen. Whether in a car or on a bike, that rode is curvy, we all have crossed over those lines before. My hearts go out to everyone involved.

    • Feeling sorry for someone who was driving with undo caution on a road where care should be observed is outrageous. He was not driving for what the road conditions call for. He was in over his head and thought he was a road racer. Jail time is due this man for his careless driving that cost a man his life and who knows what lingering effects he put on the others. Accidents happen? Only when someone is not paying attention and fails to obey the law.

      • And you know what was going through Jose’s mind as he was driving how? By the way they’re calling it reckless driving now because the can no longer say he was under the influence of any substance, that was what they first accused him of when they took him in and the results came out negative. I really love how you all wish the worst for him due to an ACCIDENT.

  19. My sincere condolences to the family who lost their loved one in this tragic accident.

    All of you need to remember that ACCIDENTS can and will happen at any time, to any person out there…it’s always a possibility ~ whether it be someone driving wrecklessly, intoxicated, someone with health issues, etc. I’m in no way saying that the young man who caused this accident shouldn’t be punished, because he should, but it’s not right to take out your anger on a family member of friend of the person who caused the accident. And yes, I have had family members injured in auto accidents. Accidents happen… they shouldn’t, but they do! All of you need to remember that!!

    My thoughts and prayers are with all families involved! For the motorcyclist that was killed, may he rest in peace and, again, my condolences to his family. For those motorcyclists injured, God speed your recovery!

  20. Irregardless of what any of you have to say jose is a good person I know him him personally and ill defend him and be there for him till the end he is a good kid and this was an accident he was sober on his way from work. If any of you have a problem with him or his family you can come down to our neighborhood and say w.e you have to say to my face 21st east palmdale ca q5 .

    • Seriously? Someone is dead because this kid was careless and all you can do is puff your chest out and threaten, like you’re going to beat up complete strangers for speaking the truth? I might have reason to think it’s no surprise the kid has a disregard for others’ safety, if people like you are his family and friends.

      All of us need to be careful drivers, and a lot of us aren’t, and that’s a fact.

          • Ron, Your comments really show what type of person you are toward other people.
            Based on your comments: You are a frustrated person who have not reached the goals in your Life.
            Jail time and Maximum time usually are given to a Criminal with previous convictions and acting intentionally.
            Based on the story, this is not Jose’s case.
            If reading these type of news make you angry. Stop reading, and seat and your couch and relax. Maybe drink a beer, or a case. You sound like a heavy drinker.

        • You wouldnt be saying this if it was your dad that was killed. Accident yes, they do happen but to take out 3 of 10 cruiser style bikes says alot about what happened. These rider were all older retired riders with more experience than most. A friend died today in an accident that should not have happened if someone would have stayed on their lane. put yourselves in the families shoes, if it was one of your parents that was in an “accident” and they lost their life you would not be defending the driver who killed your father.

      • Once again ignorant people acting like they first hand witnessed the event, all of a sudden youre all mind readers and KNOW he was being careless and reckless, and to his friends shame on you as well turning a tragedy into a “come to the block type of deal” to clarify once again,they’re calling it reckless driving because their first story about how Jose was under the influence of marijuana isnt valid anymore, he was tested and came out clean but of course they wont say that on here because they already pinned him as a bad guy so they want to ride out their story, to Jose’s friends im sure if his parents knew youre all gwtting rowdy they’d be very upset, and to everybody else pretending theyre God all of a sudden, just like God doesnt like sinners he doesnt like preachers who sin more than the first hand wrong doers so instead of talking out of the end of your colons let all families involved mourn in peace. Jose is only 19 yet handling this situation the way a man on many years would. Just let the judge decide his fate and as far as the life that was taken I’m sure he wouldnt appreciate all this negativity and hate either.

  21. It amazes me the level of ignorance behind these posts. Lives have been altered forever on both sides. It’s extremely sad and tragic no matter how you look at it. A family and many friends have lost a loved one to a VERY typical teenage exhibitionist mentality. We have all made poor choices and thought we were bulletproof at one point of our lives. Denying that is just plain lying to yourself and others. I too lost a beloved family member to a senseless tragedy of this sort. Except, in our situation, the driver was only 17. Speeding as well, lost control and changed our familys lives permanently. However, that 17yr old is now 26 and has become one of the best people I know. The guilt he experienced after was his own life sentence. He wasn’t drunk or under the influense of anything…just being a reckless teen. It was an unfortunate situation, but for the many of you wanting this kid to rot in hell are just plain hypocrites. Based on what friends have to say about Peter, I highly doubt he would want that either. I don’t know this kid or Peter, but I do know that we all have made careless mistakes. Some just end up worse than others. My condolences to Peter’s family/friends and also hope the teenager owns up to his responsibility. Let this situation make other teens think twice and potentially save a life.

    • Jaytee thank you for these compassionate and wise words. Your loved one’s life is honored by the way you are living yours.

  22. Peter Volden was a fellow motorcycle rider, Mason, Marine, Navy employee, and caring family man. He will be sorely missed. May God comfort his loved ones during this period. I pray that the person responsible is held accountable (prison) for his actions and decisions that took Peter’s life and injured those other riders.

    • Yes i gave no doubt Peter was a great man, but all his accomplishments dont make him a better person or more worthy of a life than anybody else. Jose is only 19 and just starting life, yet to see what he will accomplish with his own. Age plays no higher placement in life, we are taught to respect our elders nobody ever said anything about our elders being more worthy then our young. Im sure God wont condemn a life to all the years your bitter soul wants just because you wabt to make assumptions about this young man but keep praying the worst for Jose, I’m sure the devil feels triumph out of the hate you are all spreading. God rest Peter’s soul.

  23. Peter was my boss, he was a good man, a great friend, a good example of what a real man stood for! I still can’t believe he’s gone! He will be missed greatly! Mj

  24. Cheryl,

    My deepest Condolences from myself and Mint Canyon Moose Lodge #2173. I had riden with Peter on a few rides and it was then that I realized that he was also a Moose Member also. I had met and talked with Peter just this last convention and said that I was looking forward to riding with him and the Ventura Chapter again.

    My heart go out for you and an behalf of the Mint Canyon Moose Lodge. If there is anything that I can do for you personally, or as a Lodge, please feel free to contact me Anytime.

    Bill R. Martin
    Governor 2013-2014
    Mint Canyon Moose Lodge # 2173

  25. Peter was a good man and a Great Loyal Order Member. He will be missed by many of us. Especially his family! Cheryl, I wish I could help you with the pain you must be feeling now. But you can rest assured we are here for you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all in this most sad time. The Lord has plans for all of us and Peter is with him now. God Bless.

  26. My condolences to all involved. Everyone needs to remember that this kid caused an accident as painful as this hole situation is it was an accident he will live with this for the rest of his life and might never recover from the pain he has caused all involved. I have a brother in law that crashed head on and killed a woman not wearing a seat belt she was ejected and killed. The accident happened because somebody hit him from the right side and pushed his car onto incoming cars, now he’s scarred for life he has nightmares and feels like he has no right to live his life. I know surcomstances are a little different but everyone needs to grow up and stop bashing that is not what Peter would want I really think he would be ashamed of all this nonsense mourn your loved one “Peter” hope for a speedy recovery for the rest and do something positive with this horrible situation.

  27. All of you guys commenting are hypocrites.
    I’m pretty sure all of you guys have passed the speed limit on the freeway, roads, hwys everynow and then.
    Don’t say no because you all know that is a dam lie.
    So before you go bashing on this driver who WASN’T under the influence, you ALL should think about the next time you speed on the road, because who knows you might be the next person with an unfortunate accident just like this driver.
    And who knows you might not be under influence either, but it was an accident right?
    You all talk as if he was the first person in world who speeds because everyone speeds whether they like to admit it or not.
    So just think about the next time you go out.

    • You all have to see that the driver stayed and helped as much as he could. If he was really ungrateful like most ppl are saying #ignorance/quick to judge
      Don’t you think he would’ve left the crime scene?
      To avoid being arrested?
      No he faced his crime and feels horrible about all of this.
      I really hope everyone would stop bashing and would start writing more positive attributes to the family with this horrible loss.

      • How could he leave. His car was totaled. Driving recklessly is driving recklessly. Charges should be filed, someone lost their life because of this kids decision to drive like an idiot. I’d expect nothing less if I was in the same situation and I lost control and killed someone.

      • Do you honestly think a freakin’ ACURA was capable of “leaving the scene” after impacting roughly twice it’s weight in motorcycle and human flesh?
        Screw the little killer..he played, now he can pay.

    • There would never have been an accident if he was following the law, sheesh. If he would have used a gun you all would blame it on the gun.

  28. Before anybody wants to go and make any drug or alcohol related accusations read the article first, accidents happen on the daily worldwide, why are ignorant people so quick to just and assume and accuse that he was under any substance because of his age? Get your facts straight before you throw dirt across somebody’s name [removed]. And before you all keep talking like you guys were all present and witnessed first hand how the ACCIDENT occurred, put yourselves in his shoes, none of us know what caused the accident, and him being 19 years old doesnt necessarily mean he was racing, or speeding. You really should all be ashamed of yourselves for slandering him, his life was put at risk too, and hes taking all responsibility for this tragedy like the young man that he is. You should all think before you speak again, so many families are being affected by this, the last thing they need is a bunch of morons playing cops and lawyers and God putting your worthless opinions into this.

  29. My heart goes out to all the families. I helped on scene so to the families please let me know of his funeral and the recovery of the others. Sorry for your loss.
    Prayerfully
    Jennifer.

  30. Peter was my boss and a good man. I will miss him. As for the kid drinking or drugs, it does not matter. He is a peace. I must bite my tongue , Pixie & Dixie you need to shut up and pull your heads out before somone kicks your feet out from under you. To Pete and the Volden family Love honor and respect if you need anything please let me know.
    Josh

    • The driver is my little brothers girlfriends little brother before anybody wants to go and make any drug or alcohol related accusations read the article first, accidents happen on the daily worldwide, why are ignorant people so quick to just and assume and accuse that he was under any substance because of his age? Get your facts straight before you throw dirt across somebody’s name [removed].

  32. This is such a tragedy. Cheryl, our prayers are with you and your family. He will be greatly missed.

  33. I think I can speak on behalf of the entire Lancaster WOTM Chapter when I say that our thoughts and prayers go out to Cheryl as well as her family.The loss of Peter is absolutely tragic, as he touched so many lives ( especially children ) with his kindness and service to his community, and country. We all will include Richard, Patty, and Danny and their families in our prayers for recovery from this accident. I ask everyone who sees this to please please please slow down and adhere to the posted speed limits on the roads when you are driving. They are posted for a reason. This could have been avoided and unfortunately everyone involved is at a loss now. RIP Peter Volden you will be missed by so so many people. Hang in there Cheryl we love you!!

  34. Let’s face it, this boy will never get life for vehicular manslaughter. This was unplanned and an accident. I really feel bad for Peters family in their time of grief…let Peter R.I.P. and stop all the bickering. This is unfortunate but the curses and name calling is immature

    • It’s sad, but it sounds like it was an ACCIDENT. I’m sure the kid didn’t intentionally throw his bike into oncoming traffic-He too was in danger. Thankfully only one passed and not four people.

  35. For vehicular manslaughter, he will never get life behind bars. Yes, he was driving recklessly and killed a good man but he did not plan this. All of you should be ashamed, people are acting like children on here. Let Peter R.I.P. , that’s all you can do at this point. Sorry to Peters family for their loss. May God bless you

  36. Tragic, just tragic. Peter will be missed dearly by all who knew him. My condolences go out to Cheryl and the rest of Peter’s family and friends.

    Rest in Peace my friend.

    Glenn

  37. Pete was a fantastic individual that was always looking for a way to help others. He was very committed to everything he did, as a Mason / Moose you will be hard pressed to find anyone better. He was like a brother to me and I will always have a hole in my heart from this sensless tragedy. God bless his family.

  38. Everyone must be responsible for his own actions and the consequences that come with it. It’s not the time to be bickering. This is the time to come together and give support to a family who has suffered great loss. To say a prayer for Mr. Peter and his friends that were critically injured.

    Although I did not know him, I know heaven is rejoicing for the Angel that has come home.

  39. [removed]
    My brothers case was an accident, he didn’t mean to kill peter. I feel horrible for everything and wish i could help his family in any way.

      • So I’m guessing you’ve never gone over the speed limit right?
        You follow the law like a good citizen should?
        Because it’s B.S if you say you do.
        Fact is no one does.
        Maybe the nxt time you

  40. Well think about it when chose drive a motorcycle you should have already have come to terms that if you where ever involved in a accident you know your putting your life on the line as soon as you get on it. e died doing what he loves I’m guessing. I hope he rests in peace but yeah I know people who have died on motorcycle accidents. It happens every day I hear a motorcycle accident every day on the radio. So yeah nothing out of the ordinary People die and go it having to with your loved ones or not. Jose already has to live with taking somebodies life in mind so that’s punishment enough. It just comes to show that accidents can happen to anyone at anytime

    • So let me understand your gibberish and poor grammar….you think he shouldn’t be punished as knowing you killed one person, critically injured three others and ruined lives is sufficient?? (and that’s if the other three make it)

      No way Jose!! Think before you drive. How dare you insinuate that if you ride a motorcycle you you accept your fate. We ride, yes. We know it’s dangerous but we don’t expect a frickin 19 year old drunk jerk to cross over and hit us.

      I hope they throw the book at him and it ruins his life. I hope others learn from his example….FIRST ~ Dont’ drink and drive…..SECOND……don’t drive carelessly! Don’t SPEED!

      • I am truly sorry for your loss, and for the suffering these families are going through, but where does it indicate in this article that he was drunk? Are you assuming this, or do you happen to have more FACTS AND DETAILS that have later surfaced?

        • Your right, he probably wasn’t drunk but I see these kids all the time in the Canyons speeding in there fast cars, like its a speedway or something, most likely, he lost control of his car, I see it all the time going to the Rock Store in the Santa Monica Mountains, these youngsters speed threw canyons on a 2 lane road, you have to be cautious, especially, if you know bikers are riding down the same path, from BFMC, My prayers go out to Peter and his family, R.I.P. Brother, your up there with the best, Amen!

      • For the record Jose was not drunk! All the negativity isn’t called for what he did was wrong but it was an accident! If the situation was the other way around you wouldn’t be saying all this stupidity. Arguing isn’t going to change what happen it’s only gonna make you feel worse

        • Just for the record, if it were your dad, brother, son, husband or best friend that died as a result of that accident perhaps you’d feel different?? No, there’s no point of arguing about it but the point is that people need to be held accountable for their actions!

          • For your information Cheryl I’m pretty sure EVERYONE has lost someone dear to them regardless of it being in a car accident or just out of natural causes, because I’ve lost a lot of important people. So yes I do know how it feels to lose someone.
            And fyi once again but Jose is being held accountable for his actions. He stayed and helped, he faced his punishment, he didn’t do a hit and run like most cowards do.
            Then again you don’t know because you don’t speed right? You “follow the speed limit” like everyone? Please prove me wrong because maybe the next time you go out and speed you may be the next one with an unfortunate event. God forbid though.

        • Accidental acts involving crime may be a mitigating factor say, at sentencing but is not a valid defense to culpability. As is often the case in criminal law. For example: killing a human being without malice aforethought or intent is often called Manslaughter,not murder,whereas in most civil tort law, punitive damages may lower dollar amount or other sanctions but is not a bar to these damages being awarded to a complainant.

      • All you people bashing the teenager are so ignorant! it was an accident! You all want to sit there and judge him for speeding or whatever he was doing like none of you have ever gone over the speed limit or something similar. Im sorry for the families loss. And I will pray for them but I will also pray for this kid NOT to recieve a big punishment. He’s young and it was not his intention to kill a man. I pray that God helps him with the burden of him knowing he accidently took someones life. And i pray for the people injured to get better soon.

      • Kids really need to slow down, especially down Elizabeth Lake Road, to many kids race up and down that road. My condolences to the family and our prayers are with the others that were injured. May they recover soon.

    • R u kidding me people, ever heard of Speed Kills? well it just did! This guy just took our friends life and changed his family forever, we can only ask GOD to take of them now, yes this man should be held responsible for his ignorance.Cheryl, Josh & Amanda, may god cover you in his arms, we love you and pray that you find peace somehow in this madness. We will always love our Santa and all three of you. Your Badgett/Moose family

      • Adam.. You need to drink tea for your diabetes. Calm down…
        This is EXACTLY what happened when bike riders are not respecting the SPEED LIMT…. They could cause VERY SERIOUS collisions.

        • Eyewitnesses confirmed that the bikers were not speeding. they did however confirm that the car was travelling at a “high rate of speed” prior to entering the turn. You have no idea what went on and are simply trying to place blame on the bikers. Sorry buddy….not going to work here. Too many witnesses for you to be making these baseless claims. The bikers were travelling below the posted speed limit and it has been confirmed by multiple witnesses on scene. YOU ARE A SCUMBAG JESSE!!

  41. Any relation to the Gutierrez’s that own Casa Gutierrez, the mexican restaurant in Leona Valley?

  42. This is a tragic loss of life and people were seriously injured, but where in the article does it say this young man was speeding?

    • I believe it says he was “driving recklessly”. I know the curve well and ride my bike through there. It’s a sharp curve and people don’t slow down and do 35 or less, which is the speed limit. I’d bet everything he was over 35 MPH.

      • Yes, I saw the “recklessly driving” part in the article. The comments streaming in keep indicating speeding, drinking, drugs, and such and those things will either be proven through tests and the investigation (or not). Emotions are running high because of the very tragic loss of life and all the injuries of the remaining 3. My heart goes out to all who are suffering, but please get the facts straight before making implications on a public site.

        • You know Dixie, I dont think those are what you might call “implications”. They sound,and I know this is a real semantical quagmire for some, but Im pretty sure they are acccusations. As in the police saying “hmm, lets see here. You just killed one person and three others are maimed,and furthermore after you blew into the intoxilator I see that…” Yeah maybe we could settle on accusatory implications. If I ever kill a man and maim his buddies, I sure hope youre on MY jury! God Bless you Dixie!

          • I’m sure they did a breath test at the scene, but they do not state in this article that alcohol was a factor. If alcohol was indeed a factor they typically state it, AND he would be booked on more than reckless driving charges. I don’t know any of the people involved or any related findings of this accident. I am just reading the article and wonder where all these other things are coming from.

  43. we will be missed our brother Peter Volden that is my brother in law .. The man did this need to pay harder penalty.You took away my brother because of your stupidy driving influence

  44. My brother will never have the chance to wonder if HE should slow down on a curve now will he. And it sounds like that little speed demon is being investigated for using drugs while driving. From the looks of the front of his car, he was motoring along a lot faster than what I can see of the road, would be considered prudent, let alone LEGAL. I live in WI and we are in an area where 10 to 15 mph curves are normal. AND RESPECTED because they really ARE not safe at speeds over the posted limit. Jose Gutierrez……..a curse on you…..from the caves in Old Mexico…..a curse on you……………………………………

    • Also Jose……….you have robbed a lot of children of the “Santa” they grew accustomed to at Christmas. And a lot of adults who also enjoyed our own “Santa Peter”.
      October is a powerful month for certain groups of people. You will be in my thoughts………….

      • Sorry for the loss of your brother theresa. I am sure this must be a very difficult time for you and his family. I don’t think threatening him with curses or witchcraft will change the situation and I’m sure you are too old and mature fir that. It’s very unfortunate what has happened and the court system will take care of Jose.

    • It is a routine procedure to test for drugs & alcohol in an accident where there is serious injuries or a death.

    • [removed] he was not under the influence feel it was an ACCIDENT!!
      Yes I feel horrible about what happened and R.i.p peter. If I could attend his funeral I would but Idk anything about his family right now and they will be in my prayers tonight.
      Everyone commenting should think about what they are posting up because first of all you all make it like he did it intentionally. He DIDN’T! He is a good person and he feels Horrible for what happened. But just remember something unfortunate may happened to you or your loved ones in the future. God Forbid, but just keep in mind that I also put a curse on you [removed] for not being mature enough about this situation.

      • The breath test and toxicology screening will HELP his case in court if he was not under the influence.

    • So tell me, How much do you know about this car?
      Since you abviously know so much about this license plate ad the driver

  46. Peter was greatly missed today at the moose lodge. He will forever be in our hearts! He served our country, served as a highly respected Moose member and served some great Bloody Marys. Our love goes out to his family and the families of the other motorcyclists involved, they too will be in our prayers

  47. I am furious that this happened. I heard about it on the news when it happened. I’ve driven that winding road many times and you certainly can’t speed on it. Where the curves are, the county should put bumps on the road to make people slow down. I waited for hours praying it wasn’t my son because he belongs to a motorcycle club.

    This young man deserves the book to be thrown at him. I feel no sympathy for him. He took a life!

    My condolences to Peter Volden’s family and I pray to the Lord that the other riders pull through completely.

  48. The man that was killed by this senseless accident was MY BROTHER!!!! I hope the young man that caused this thinks long and hard about what he did!

    • I am so sorry for your loss Carrie. Losing a brother is so painful. I lost mine in a car accident.

      Your brother looked like a jolly man who brought a lot of joy into everyone’s life. May God give you strength to get through this sad time.

      A big hug to you ( ). God Bless you and yours!

      Sandra

    • God Almighty, You dont know me but I am so sorry for your pain. Your family has suffered an enormous loss. You poor dear. I bet this sounds hollow now but Im sure the law will act accordingly. I will pray for your brother and your family. Mr Guiterrez Im sorry but I seem fresh out of……

  49. hi here is my thought. my parents told me before i drove a vechlie is a weapon you can kill a person with it. so i always asked my self how should i drive? do i want to come home? do i enjoy liven? so if a person is aware of the responsiblitys then he should be help accountable for all his actions behind a wheel.. im 23 years old i been in one accident cause a carless driver came head on with me parents should not be bothered with there sons actions.

  50. He is 19 years old (according to the story). The responsibility is all his. Why should the parents take responsibility for something their adult child has done? He is an adult in the eyes of the law, no matter how irresponsible his actions were.

      • The parents insurance will have to pay but this MAN who ran into them will be jailed. I hope he feels remorse because what he did affects many.

        • First of all Gemini, he is 19.
          You know over 18, technically an adult.
          you make it seem like my parents knew this was going to happen. Don’t you blame them for this unfortunate event.

  51. always been accidents there there used to be a tree there and to solve that issue of cars crashing into the tree they took it down but the tree wasnt the probem the road isnt either its the speed the drivers take that turn on they should slow down not just there but down all elizabeth lk rd bouquet canyon and godde hill

  52. Fact is folks drive way too fast on the two lane roads out here, its like a race track most days especially with the people that commute thru the area; slow down!!! People pass on double yellow way to frequently… If you want to go fast stay on the freeway and stay out of my town…

    • The reason people pass on double yellow is because slower drivers don’t use the pull outs so they can be passed safely.. they just drive on past every last one no matter how long the line of cars behind them.

  53. This corner could have easily been re-engineered a long time ago. But it won’t happen. Instead this incident will be used by developers as grounds for the need of their 4 lane highway to connect their future urban sprawl. This road has been reworked in both directions leading up to this curve, yet this curve remains.

    • — [T]his incident will be used by developers as grounds for the need of their 4 lane highway to connect their future urban sprawl. —

      I sure hope not but I think you are probably right. These roads can be driven safely at posted speeds provided one pays attention to the conditions. I like that all throughout the area there are turnouts for slower traffic. There is no reason for unsafe speeds and unsafe passing.

  54. DRIVING THRU THAT ROAD DURING THE SUMMER WITH HUSBAND N GRANCHILDREN A CORVET ALMOST RAN US OFF THE ROAD AND RAN ALMOST HEAD ON TO A VAN COMING IN THE OTHER DIRECTION GOT TO BECAREFUL DRIVING THRU THERE THATS FOR SURE

  55. That is a very rough part of Elizabeth Road. The curve is sharp and you can’t drive fast around it. In fact, several years ago two people died at that very curve due to rainy conditions I believe. You can see one of their crosses in the back ground in the picture. People need to slow down!!!
    my prayers are for the survivors and R.I.P Mr. Volden

    • Your an idiot that is my best friend was.coming.hom3.from.work.this could.have.happened.to.anyone

      • Hopefully your best friend will spend most of his life in jail. Ive driven that road a hundred times and if you’re paying attention to the speed limits you’ll be just fine.
        So no this wont happen to just anyone unless they’re being idiots like your friend.

        • You make it seem like he did it intentionally [removed], he feels horrible for what happened if he could take back he would! Don’t be blaming my parents for what happened if anything they want to help out peters family as much as possible through this tough time.
          R.I.P Peter.

          • Frankly, being sorry isn’t enough. I’m sure he feels bad but feeling bad won’t bring lives back. You have to be smart enough and mature enough NOT TO DO IT in the first place. No excuse for speeding around in his hopped up Infinity. If you are his friend, you KNOW he’s hot rodded it around before. Look at yourself in the mirror and learn from his poor judgment. It could easily happen to you if you are still defending him. Time to grow up.

        • Mike I hope you spend most of your life learning how to grow up, because you make it seem like he did it intentionally.

          • Actuly he 100% caused the wreck…his foot was on the peddles and his hands were on the wheel..he was driving beyond his abilities.. inexperience is no excuse for drifting over the lines…I drive this road daily and I see teenagers trying to be street racers around the turns and putting everyone at risk… his time for judgement is coming..and it will be handed down by a judge and or jury.

          • Im supposed to grow up? Looks like you’re the one who needs a bit of common sense here. Feeling bad and regret for something like this is going to happen to anyone after the fact.
            If you start merging into other lanes because your car isnt able to hold its own lane then you are taking a risk that is obviously very dangerous and im sure EVERYONE knows what the consequences are. Unless you’re speeding, not paying attention at all on such roads, or [removed] on something there is no reason to be accidentally swerving into the opposite lane on a TWO LANE CANYON ROAD! This is as close to intentional as its going to get!
            Hope you and your family arent only thinking about Peter who unfortunately lost his life but the others whose lives will dramatically change from this accident.

          • Pretty amazing how this “Accidents Happen” crap keeps getting thrown around. Being used like it happened, it sucks, big deal, get over it, and lets move on.
            If my friends or myself had crashed in a situation like this i and they would deserve to go to jail. I wouldnt sit there defending them and would expect the same! Alot of the people on here are speaking as if the car had a mind of its own.
            Cant imagine how you would react in this situation if it were the other way around.
            The guy could have been a great kid but regardless he took life.

      • If the guy that died was your best friend, you wouldn’t much care where the kid was driving from.

      • I am so sorry that your friend is going through this. It is a tragedy for all, but I truly feel for your friend.

        • Thank you Dixie, for being mature about this situation. If it was the other way around I wouldn’t be bashing on the driver because I know it was an accident.
          For Peter’s family I’m sorry and I hope he is rest in peace. I could help with anything I would, and this is coming from the drivers sister…

          • This is a horrible thing that has happened, and Elvira has just as much pain for her brother and his situation as any of you for the loss of your friend. Let’s all calm down and understand that everything that happens, happens for a reason, there is no need to point fingers and be angry. Be happy in the fact that you were all blessed to have a wonderful individual in your lives, and I’m sure by the remarks on this page he was an outstanding individual. God has called him home, do your part to help his family heal, Anger and hostility is not going to help them and it won’t bring him back. Yes this young man made a terrible mistake and he will live with his own actions, there is no excuse it is just a fact of life, There is most likely not one of you that has not at one time or another done something just as bad, the difference is your mistakes did not end in loss of life and injury to someone else, but don’t think for a moment that they couldn’t have turned out the same. Be safe, reduce your speed and be in control at all times. God Bless all of you.

      • Weather he was coming home from work, or from his Gramas house, he should have been driving more safely than he was. He must be a local kid as you say he was, then he knows that road well enough to slow down at that curve. And by the way, the rider that was killed is a friend of mine. How about we just pray for all that are involved in this horrific accident, and there families. Peter you will be missed my friend….

      • that was my close friend your friend killed, i don’t give a damn where your friend was coming from. My friend will never come home again

      • Peter was a friend, a father and good man…. Your friend in is selfish need for speed Killed Peter and Seriously injured 3 other people. He was Driving TOO FAST. I hope Your friend Jose Gutierrez goes to jail for a very long time.

        • Instead of bashing on my brother you should be helping out peters family…
          They need more attention right now.

          • Yeah and maybe you should be looking for a good bailbondsman instead of web surfing after all of these tragic events.

      • Danny, You sound like an immature child. He’s still breathing. He will go to jail and I hope for a long time.

        There is one man who is dead because of your friend and two others in serious condition. Get down on your knees and pray for them.

        Shame on you for your comment! If you were my son, I’d be so ashamed of you. Grow Up!!!!

      • Your best friend will now have to live with having killed my uncle! A little slower, and he not only would have made it home, but Peter would have too. Now Pete is dead, and your friend will likely be sentenced for his death! This never should have happened!

      • I’m sorry for your friend and for the man that passed away as well as the other 2 people that were injured but what really bothers me are all these judgmental people on here its obvious it was an accident and chances are this could have happened to anybody I don’t think anybody that has posted about his reckless driving have always 100% been driving safe their entire life and following the speed limit (even if it is just 5 miles over the speed limit) so for them to say anything makes them hypocrites and thus should not be listened too so instead of talking about how he should be punished they should be worrying about the victims family and anybody else that was affected by this terrible ACCIDENT!!!!!! and maybe not be so harsh, because if they were in his position they wouldn’t be saying what they are saying right now and would be begging for forgiveness