An 80-year-old man from Pomona died on Highway 243 when his car spun out of control and overturned on Friday, Jan. 22.
Everett Mitchell was driving his gray 2005 Ford Ranger northbound on Highway 243, 3 miles north of the intersection with Round Robin Drive, at about 9:18 a.m. when, on a curve, his vehicle drifted onto the shoulder. According to California Highway Patrol Public Information Officer Darren Meyer, Mitchell overcorrected by sharply turning to the left. Mitchell’s vehicle overturned on the west edge of the road, partially ejecting Mitchell who was not wearing a seat belt.
Mitchell was killed during the roll over, according to the CHP report. At the time of the crash, the roadway was dry and weather was clear. Alcohol, drugs and/or fatigue have not been ruled out as a contributing factor to the collision. The investigating officer expressed the opinion that use of a seatbelt could have saved the driver’s life.