PHOENIX, ARIZONA — Amado Rodriguez Jr., 66, died after being struck by a pickup truck while riding his bicycle on 16th Street in Phoenix.
The fatal collision happened shortly before 6 a.m. on 16th Street south of University Drive, near the Salt River bridge.
According to the preliminary account, a white GMC pickup struck Rodriguez from behind, knocking him from his bicycle. The bicycle was dragged several feet as the truck continued away from the scene.
Rodriguez suffered severe injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene after first responders arrived.
What Happened to Amado Rodriguez Jr.?
Rodriguez was riding his bicycle along 16th Street when he was struck from behind by the pickup truck.
The impact threw him onto the pavement and left his bicycle damaged in the roadway.
Passing motorists alerted authorities, bringing police and emergency personnel to the scene. Paramedics attempted to provide medical assistance, but Rodriguez could not be saved.
The driver of the pickup initially left the area rather than remaining at the scene.
Police Trace Pickup Truck to Glendale
Phoenix police investigators collected evidence from the crash scene, including broken vehicle components and tire marks.
That evidence helped investigators trace the suspected pickup to the Glendale area.
Officers later located a damaged GMC truck near 47th and Olive avenues. The vehicle reportedly had a shattered windshield and other damage consistent with the collision under investigation.
Investigators then determined who had been driving the truck at the time of the crash.
Driver Arrested in Fatal Hit-and-Run Investigation
Authorities identified 32-year-old Jesus Alejandro Cardenas Angulo as the suspected driver.
According to the investigation, Angulo acknowledged striking Rodriguez and told investigators that he panicked and left the scene.
He was subsequently booked into the Maricopa County Jail.
The case includes allegations involving the fatal collision, leaving the scene and evidence-related conduct. The criminal charges remain allegations unless and until established in court.
Amado Rodriguez Jr. Crash Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Amado Rodriguez Jr. |
| Age | 66 |
| Location | Phoenix, Arizona |
| Date | Developing incident |
| Time of crash | Shortly before 6 a.m. |
| Roadway | 16th Street, south of University Drive |
| Nearby landmark | Salt River bridge |
| Victim’s vehicle | Bicycle |
| Other vehicle | White GMC pickup |
| Crash type | Fatal bicycle collision / hit-and-run |
| Victim outcome | Pronounced dead at scene |
| Suspect identified | Jesus Alejandro Cardenas Angulo, 32 |
| Bond | $500,000 |
| Investigation | Ongoing |
Charges and Investigation
Angulo is facing serious charges in connection with the crash, including manslaughter, tampering with evidence and leaving the scene.
Investigators are also awaiting additional testing and evidence as they continue determining the circumstances surrounding Rodriguez’s death.
Speed and blood-test results could provide further information about whether those factors played a role in the collision.
The filing of criminal charges does not constitute a finding of guilt. Angulo remains entitled to due process as the case moves through the court system.
Remembering Amado Rodriguez Jr.
For Rodriguez’s family and friends, his death represents a sudden and devastating loss.
A morning bicycle ride ended with a fatal collision, leaving loved ones to confront the circumstances surrounding his death while investigators continue working to establish the complete sequence of events.
The case also highlights the serious consequences that can follow when a driver leaves the scene of a collision involving a vulnerable road user.
Investigation Continues
Police are continuing to examine the evidence collected from the roadway, the damaged pickup and the subsequent investigation in Glendale.
Additional testing could help investigators determine whether speed, impairment or other factors contributed to the crash.
As the criminal case proceeds, further information may emerge about the events that led to Rodriguez’s death and the actions taken immediately afterward.
Funeral, visitation and memorial arrangements for Amado Rodriguez Jr. were not included in the available information and should be confirmed through his family or authorized representatives.
Disclaimer
This article reports on a fatal traffic collision and the criminal allegations arising from the investigation. Charges against Jesus Alejandro Cardenas Angulo are allegations and do not establish guilt. Details may be updated as investigators release additional information and the case proceeds through court. Funeral and memorial information should be confirmed through the family or authorized representatives.