The Oro Grande community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 19-year-old Cody Howell, a Riverside Preparatory School Class of 2024 graduate, who was tragically killed Wednesday morning in a head-on collision along National Trails Highway.
According to the San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office, Howell died at the scene of the crash, which occurred at approximately 6:56 a.m. on May 13 west of Robinson Ranch Road. Authorities say the collision involved a northbound Dodge Ram pickup and a southbound Chevrolet Suburban.
Family members say Howell was driving the Suburban at the time of the crash. Despite emergency response efforts, he suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
His sister, who was riding as a passenger, was also injured in the crash. She was rescued from the vehicle by firefighters and transported for medical care. She suffered a concussion and is now recovering at home. Loved ones shared that she was on her way to school when the crash occurred, with her brother driving her.
The driver of the pickup truck was also seriously injured and airlifted to a trauma center after being freed from the wreckage. The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Beyond the crash details, friends and family are remembering Howell as a kind, hardworking young man who was deeply devoted to those he loved. His sudden passing has left an overwhelming sense of grief in the community, as many struggle to accept that a life filled with promise was taken so suddenly.
A GoFundMe campaign has been created to help support funeral and medical expenses, as loved ones rally together in his memory. The community continues to mourn his loss while offering prayers and support to the grieving family during this painful time.
