Reward increased in hit-and-run case

Police still seek culprit who killed Eliseo Cervantes

Humboldt Sentinel staff
9/3/09

Arcata

An anonymous donor has come forward to add to the reward fund for information leading to the arrest and conviction for the person responsible for the hit-and-run traffic collision death of Eliseo Cervantes.

The $1,000 contribution to the reward offered by the Arcata Police Department now makes a total of $3,000 offered for a lead.

The collision took place on Samoa Boulevard near K Street on July 26 at around 2:15 a.m. Cervantes was a husband, father, and long-time employee at Sun Valley Floral Farms.

The APD describe the suspect vehicle as a black or dark colored 80s or 90s Ford or Chevy full-sized truck, with a regular, lifted cab and dark tinted windows. Witnesses also described a Fox Racing or similar sticker in the upper left-hand corner of the rear window, and metal side mirrors. Officers suggest damage to the vehicle resultant from the collision as possibly consisting of driver side bumper and fender damage, and other possible damage to the hood, grille, turn signal assembly and mirror.

APD officer Kevin Stonebarger thanked local residents who have already provided information about the incident, and invited further information to be submitted directly to the APD at (707) 822-2427 or anonymously through their Tip Line at (707) 825-2587.