RIVERSIDE, CA — The Riverside community is grieving the tragic loss of Raulder Sotelo, 32, who was killed early Wednesday morning in a head-on collision along Interstate 215.
Shortly after midnight on January 14, 2026, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) received reports of a silver Mitsubishi Galant traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of Interstate 215 near Cactus Avenue. Officers attempted to locate the vehicle as it continued driving the wrong way, narrowly avoiding multiple vehicles.
The Mitsubishi ultimately collided head-on with a silver Toyota Camry just south of Central Avenue. Raulder Sotelo, the Camry’s driver and lifelong Riverside resident, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene by Riverside fire personnel. Family and friends are mourning the devastating loss of someone remembered for his warmth and presence in the community.
The driver of the Mitsubishi, a 20-year-old Moreno Valley resident, sustained major injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Their current condition has not been released. Investigators believe alcohol or drugs may have been a factor in the crash.
The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the incident. Anyone who witnessed the collision is urged to contact the CHP Accident Investigation Unit at 951-324-7210.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Riverside community is rallying around Raulder’s loved ones, sharing condolences, and remembering the impact he had on those around him.
