DUI driver arrested for murder after fatal crash near Temecula wine country

An alleged DUI driver was arrested for murder following a deadly crash outside of Temecula's wine country last week. 

In a news release shared by the Riverside County Sheriff's Office, deputies said that they were called to Rancho California Road near Riesling Court at around 6:50 p.m. for a "major injury traffic collision."

"Upon arrival, deputies located three vehicles with significant damage, and a pedestrian who was pronounced deceased at the scene," the release said. 

Two others, who were passengers in one of the involved vehicles, were hospitalized in stable condition, deputies said. 

While investigating the crash, the Southwest Station's Traffic Team determined that one of the drivers, 38-year-old Bellflower resident Jonathan Ruiz, was under the influence of alcohol.

He was arrested at the scene and booked at the Cois Byrd Detention Center for murder and driving under the influence causing injury, according to the release.

"This is an ongoing investigation, and no further details will be released at this time," the release said. 

The victim was identified by the Riverside Sheriff's Office - Coroner as 39-year-old Murrieta resident David Heard. 

Friends and family members have started a GoFundMe to help Heard's family in the wake of their tragedy. It can be found by searching for the keywords: "Support for Elsie Heard After Tragic Loss."

Anyone who witnessed the collision or who knows more was asked to contact RSO Deputy Samuel Strizver at 951-696-3000.