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1300+A confrontation in a Redlands parking lot allegedly escalated into a chase across the city. Police say it ended with a vehicle being rammed on purpose, and a 24-year-old Mentone man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
The case is a sobering reminder that a car can be used as a weapon. It also shows that victims of intentional crashes have legal rights that go beyond the criminal case.
What Happened in Redlands
Redlands police say the incident began on the evening of Friday, October 2, 2026, in the 1700 block of East Lugonia Avenue. Giovanni Efrain Pelayo allegedly found his ex-girlfriend and a friend sitting in a parked vehicle.
Police say he approached the car, argued with the occupants, and tried to force his way inside. He then allegedly jumped onto the hood and damaged the vehicle before the occupants drove away.
The Alleged Pursuit
According to police, Pelayo followed in his own car. He allegedly caught up near the Redlands California Temple on Fifth Street and rammed their vehicle. The occupants drove off again, and he kept following.
During the pursuit, police say he collided with an uninvolved vehicle on Reservoir Road. The victims later stopped at a public location and called the police.
Authorities say Pelayo abandoned his car near Moore Middle School. Officers found him at his home in Mentone and arrested him without further incident. Reports indicate neither the ex-girlfriend nor her friend was hurt.
Arrest and Charges
Pelayo was held at the San Bernardino County Central Detention Center in lieu of $1 million bail. He was booked on suspicion of attempted murder, domestic violence, and vandalism.
An arrest is not a conviction. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. Anyone with information can contact Redlands Police Dispatch at 909-798-7681, ext. 8.
Why Intentional Vehicle Crashes Are Different
Most collisions come from negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or running a red light. An intentional crash involves deliberate conduct, which changes how the criminal and civil systems respond.
Victims may face physical injuries, vehicle damage, and lasting emotional trauma. Passengers and bystanders can be hurt too, even when they were not the intended target.
Legal Options for Victims of an Intentional Car Crash
Criminal Charges and Civil Claims Are Separate
Prosecutors file criminal charges on behalf of the state. A civil claim is a way for a victim to seek compensation from the person responsible.
A personal injury lawyer can pursue damages whether or not a criminal case ends in a conviction. The two cases use different standards of proof and move on their own timelines.
Insurance Coverage Can Get Complicated
Many auto liability policies exclude intentional acts, so the at-fault driver’s insurance may not pay. Victims may still have other options. These can include their own uninsured motorist coverage, medical payments coverage, or a direct claim against the responsible party.
An attorney can review every available policy and identify the best path to recovery.
Uninvolved Drivers Can Be Victims Too
In this case, police say the pursuit also led to a collision with an uninvolved vehicle. Drivers caught in the path of a chase can pursue a car accident claim for medical bills, repairs, and lost income.
Get Help From an Inland Empire Personal Injury Lawyer
Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer helps injured clients across San Bernardino County and the Inland Empire. With offices in Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, and Victorville, our team can review your situation, explain your options, and handle the insurance process while you focus on healing.
Learn more about how we handle personal injury cases. Consultations are free, and you pay nothing unless we recover compensation.
Contact Attorney Jeff today for a free case evaluation. After an accident, Jeff’s got you.
About the Author
JEFFREY FAYNGOR, ESQ.
Jeffrey Fayngor is the founder of Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer and an experienced personal injury attorney dedicated to representing accident victims. He earned his J.D. from Whittier College School of Law and has recovered over $120 million for injured clients. He has built his practice around helping injury victims protect their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.