Larenz Fondren dies in fatal San Bernardino County car crash

Larenz Fondren dies in fatal San Bernardino County car crash

Fatal San Bernardino County car crash death of Larenz Fondren – Obituary

Nineteen-year-old Larenz Fondren, a nursing student from Colton, lost his life on May 2, 2025, after being struck by a suspected DUI driver while walking to his clinical shift in San Bernardino County.

Fondren, who was just two months away from completing his vocational nursing program, had long dreamed of working in healthcare, driven by his personal struggle with sickle cell disease. That morning, while crossing the road near Washington Street and Center Drive around 7 a.m., he was hit by a speeding Dodge Challenger, reportedly seen on video traveling in the bike lane moments before the crash.

The driver, identified as 30-year-old Antonio Medrano of Colton, was arrested at the scene. Authorities say Medrano was under the influence and did not have a valid driver’s license. He faces charges of gross vehicular manslaughter, DUI, and driving without a license. After being booked with a bail set at $100,000, Medrano was released just two days later—an outcome that left Fondren’s family outraged.

Larenz’s father, Wayne Fondren, described the heartbreaking scene and expressed disbelief that someone with a record of suspended licenses and reckless driving could be freed so quickly after causing a fatal crash.

The Colton Police Department is continuing its investigation, awaiting toxicology reports. According to the victim’s sister, Medrano admitted to using marijuana. Meanwhile, the Fondren family continues to call for justice and accountability.

To honor what would have been Larenz’s 20th birthday, the family is planning a public memorial event at Cal Skate in Grand Terrace on June 7.

Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact Detective Isabel Jaramillo at 909-370-5142 or email [email protected]. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through We-Tip at 1-800-782-7463 or online at wetip.com.