Taft, CA – The Kern County Coroner’s Office has identified Joe Paul M. Gongora Jr., 47, as the motorcyclist who lost his life in a hit-and-run involving a pickup truck on the morning of Sunday, July 27, 2025, according to KGET.

The Taft Police Department reports that the accident took place around 10:43 AM near the 1000 block of Kern Street.

Gongora had been riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle eastbound on Kern Street when a white Chevrolet Silverado, traveling westbound, made a left turn in front of him. The motorcycle struck the truck during the turn. Gongora was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel.

Authorities say the driver of the pickup fled before law enforcement arrived. An arrest warrant was later issued for Alejandro Padilla Jr., 48, who was identified as the suspected driver. 

Police report that Padilla turned himself in at the superior court with legal representation on Tuesday and was taken into custody. He was arrested on suspicion of hit-and-run causing death and vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence.

California Hit-and-Run Laws

California Law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop their vehicle, notify law enforcement, and exchange insurance information with others involved. Failure to do so, considered to be a “hit-and-run,” is a misdemeanor in cases of property damage and a felony when someone has been injured.

Wrongful Death Claims

Even if a fatal accident doesn’t lead to criminal charges, families who lose a loved one can still file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide support to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income.

California Wrongful Death Lawyer

If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Wrongful Death Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.