The parents of a 30-year-old man who was struck and killed in a hit-and-run in Ventura County are speaking publicly for the first time, hoping someone will come forward with information about the driver who fled the scene.
Steven Michael Monzon was struck by a vehicle late on June 7, after being dropped off mid-way through an Uber ride along Santa Rosa Road near Camarillo, according to his family.
Monzon’s parents say their son, a musician who was engaged to be married, was traveling from his fiancée’s home in Simi Valley to their home in Camarillo when the rideshare trip ended about several miles short of its destination.
“He was a man full of life, and full of a future,” his father, Steven Arthur Monzon, said. “It was cut short, and it hurts us all.”
A 911 caller reported seeing a man in the roadway trying to flag down vehicles around 10:50 p.m. near Santa Rosa and Gerry roads. According to the family, a nearby resident later reported hearing screams before a vehicle drove away.
The California Highway Patrol is investigating the crash. Monzon’s parents say the only description they have heard is that of a black sedan.
The family also wants answers about why Monzon was left on a dark rural road before reaching his destination.
“And where he was let out was inappropriate,” his father said. “It was next to a lemon orchard, no sidewalks, no lighting, two-lane highway.”
Uber did not respond to requests for comment.
Monzon’s parents say they hope someone with information about the hit-and-run driver contacts the CHP and that the case leads to stronger safety requirements for rideshare companies.
Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call the CHP at 805-477-4174.