Earlier this week, Armando Moreno-Rodriguez was convicted of second-degree murder by a Sacramento County jury. He now faces a maximum sentence of 15-years and 8-months, to life in prison.
On the morning of June 29, 2021, Moreno-Rodriguez, 25 (at the time), drove his car through a gate and onto the American River Bike Trail.
According to the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, he then drove four miles going 35 mph before hitting 76-year-old Michael Dodson.
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The driver didn't stop until his car broke down
Moreno-Rodriguez kept driving, only stoping when his car eventually broke down. He was initially arrested on hit and run charges, as well as felony DUI.
According to the DA, his blood alcohol level was 0.27 (anything above 0.08 is considered legally intoxicated).
The Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office reported that Moreno-Rodriguez had three prior misdemeanor convictions for DUI, and was given a Watson advisement, which states that driving under the influence is extremely dangerous to human life and might lead to a charge of murder if someone is killed as a result.
This week’s convictions also include gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, hit and run, and driving on a suspended license. He will be sentenced June 9.
Dodson was taken to the hospital in critical condition, and died July 23. Dodson was part of the Sacramento Wheelmen Cycling Club, and enjoyed the recreation and community of cycling.
The bike trail was considered a safe haven by local cyclists
The American River Bike Trail is a protected, 32-mile path that winds parallel to the American River from Folsom Lake to Sacramento. It’s open year round, from sunrise to sunset, and is popular among commuters and recreationalists alike.
According to CBS News, local cyclists describe what happened as their worst nightmare. “You try to always think about those things, especially when you're riding on the road. Obviously, you're in that mindset but outside the road when you're here you're thinking you're safe,” local cyclist Donovan Lewis said.
