BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — The family of the bicyclist killed by an on-duty arson investigator with the Bakersfield Fire Department in a crash in October have filed a claim against the city and the fire department.
Bruce Edward Hall Jr., 32, of Bakersfield was traveling westbound on 4th Street on Oct. 31. Hall reportedly failed to stop at the red light at Union Avenue and drove into cross traffic, according to officials.
Hall was struck in front of the Great Castle Restaurant at around 10 a.m. at the corner of Union Avenue and 4th Street, according to the Bakersfield Police Department.
He died at a local hospital about 30 minutes after the crash.
On Nov. 17, Hall’s four biological siblings filed a tort claim against the city of Bakersfield, Bakersfield Fire Department, Kern County and the Kern County Fire Department, according to city documents.
Cyclist struck, killed by on-duty arson investigator with Bakersfield Fire Department
The claim said the driver in the marked patrol vehicle failed to stop and crashed into Hall, alleging negligent, reckless or “conscious disregard” for the safety of others while on duty.
The claim also accused the city and/or county of not properly training nor monitoring their officers when driving near members of the public.
Hall didn’t die immediately in the crash and suffered damages before his death, including the cost of treatment Hall received as well as the pain and suffering, the claim said.
Hall’s siblings are seeking over $10,000 for damages, but the exact amount hasn’t been specified yet.
The names of BFD personnel responsible for the crash is unknown to the family at this time, according to the claim.
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