Lake Elsinore, California – Arnulfo Nungaray, a 20-year-old motorcyclist from Eastvale, was tragically killed in a fatal accident on Ortega Highway near Lake Elsinore on Sunday afternoon, September 22, 2024. The Riverside County coroner’s office confirmed Nungaray’s identity on Monday, following the crash that occurred at approximately 4:32 p.m.
The incident took place on State Route 74, about 1.2 miles west of Grand Avenue, in the unincorporated area of Lake Elsinore. Nungaray was riding his 2023 Suzuki GSX-R750 eastbound when he lost control while attempting to navigate a sharp lefthand curve. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), his motorcycle collided with a wood and metal guardrail, ejecting him from the bike.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene around 4:17 p.m., but Nungaray was tragically pronounced dead shortly after the crash. The CHP has not yet determined the exact speed at which he was traveling at the time of the accident.
Ortega Highway, known for its scenic views and popularity among motorcyclists, is also notorious for its hazardous curves, particularly for those traveling at high speeds. The CHP’s Temecula Area office is investigating the cause of the crash.
CHP Officer Mike Lassig emphasized the importance of cautious driving, especially on challenging roads like Ortega Highway. “We urge the motoring public to always be mindful of your speed and maintain a high visual horizon to safely navigate curves or hazards in the roadway,” Lassig stated.
The sudden and tragic loss of Arnulfo Nungaray has left his friends and family heartbroken as they mourn the loss of a young life taken too soon.