BAKERSFIELD, CA (November 22, 2024) – Bakersfield residents are demanding immediate safety improvements on Columbus Street after 13-year-old Jeremiah Villalobos was struck and killed while riding his bike last week. The incident happened in broad daylight near Loyola Street, marking the third fatal collision on the street in five years.
At a city council meeting Tuesday, family members and friends of Jeremiah urged city leaders to take action. “The speed on Columbus is outrageous,” said Carmen Perez, Jeremiah’s grandmother. “Drivers must be held accountable. Our children deserve to ride their bikes safely.”
Jeremiah’s friend, Isaiah Zeja, asked for specific safety measures like crosswalks, speed bumps, or traffic lights to prevent future tragedies. Councilmember Ken Weir, whose ward includes Columbus Street, proposed working with Jeremiah’s family to explore solutions.
The city has yet to announce specific plans to address the safety concerns raised at the meeting.
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