Raul Augustin Gallopa Obituary, Death – Authorities in Long Beach have identified the bicyclist who passed away after a traffic incident earlier this month. The victim was 35-year-old Raul Augustin Gallopa, a resident of Long Beach, according to information released by the Long Beach Police Department and the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
The incident occurred shortly before 8 p.m. on October 6, near the intersection of East Fourth Street and Bonito Avenue. Police reports indicate that Gallopa was traveling east on Fourth Street and attempted to make a northbound turn onto Bonito Avenue when his bicycle was struck by a 2021 BMW 330i.
Emergency responders arrived quickly and found Gallopa unconscious on the roadway. He was immediately provided medical aid and transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite the efforts of doctors and first responders, he passed away from his injuries on Monday, according to the medical examiner’s office.
The driver of the BMW, identified by authorities as 24-year-old Ahkeyajahnique Owens of Long Beach, remained at the scene and cooperated with the ongoing investigation. Police said the vehicle appeared to have been traveling at a high rate of speed at the time of the collision. Following the initial investigation, Owens was taken into custody on suspicion of reckless driving. Officials have not yet confirmed whether additional charges will be filed as the case continues to be reviewed by prosecutors.
The Long Beach Police Department’s Collision Investigation Detail is handling the inquiry. Detectives are analyzing evidence from the scene, including surveillance footage, vehicle data, and witness statements, to better understand the circumstances that led to the crash. Investigators are also evaluating factors such as lighting, road conditions, and the movements of both the bicycle and the vehicle prior to impact.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has relevant information to come forward. Individuals can contact Detective Ashley van Holland at 562-570-7355 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or lacrimestoppers.org.
The intersection where the crash occurred is a busy residential and commercial area, often used by both cyclists and motorists. Local residents have expressed concern about speeding in the area and have called for increased traffic enforcement and safety measures to protect those using bicycles and other non-motorized transportation.
Community members who knew Gallopa have shared messages of sympathy and remembrance on social media, describing him as a friendly and hardworking person who enjoyed riding his bike around the neighborhood. Many have also voiced calls for safer roads and more awareness between drivers and cyclists to help prevent future tragedies.
Long Beach officials continue to promote roadway safety initiatives, reminding all road users to remain alert and exercise caution, particularly in areas where cyclists and pedestrians are present. The city has made ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure for cyclists through dedicated bike lanes, signage, and awareness campaigns.
This incident marks another serious reminder of how crucial it is for both motorists and bicyclists to follow traffic rules and stay aware of their surroundings. Authorities stress that maintaining safe speeds and giving extra attention at intersections can make a significant difference in preventing collisions.
As the investigation proceeds, police are awaiting results from the ongoing review to determine whether further legal actions will be taken. The community continues to offer support to Gallopa’s family and friends as they cope with the loss.
The Long Beach Police Department encourages anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that even small details can assist investigators in piecing together the full picture of what occurred on that evening.
