BRAXTON ALDAMA, a 24-year-old motorcyclist was killed late Sunday night following a serious collision on Winter Gardens Boulevard in Lakeside, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The fatal crash occurred at approximately 10:32 p.m. near 9594 Winter Gardens Boulevard, between Greek Chicken and Innovation High School. Investigators said the motorcyclist was traveling eastbound when he collided with a vehicle pulling out from the farthest driveway exit along the roadway.
CHP officials identified the victim as Braxton Aldama, 24, an East County resident and a graduate of Granite Hills High School. Aldama was riding a black motorcycle at the time of the crash.
Authorities said the motorcycle collided with a black 2010 Toyota Prius driven by a woman who was exiting a nearby business driveway. Aldama suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Prius was arrested, though officials have not released information regarding the specific charges or whether impairment was a factor. The cause and circumstances of the crash remain under investigation.
Winter Gardens Boulevard was closed in both directions for several hours following the collision as investigators documented the scene. Both vehicles involved were towed away as part of the investigation.
The California Highway Patrol said the investigation is ongoing and is asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash to contact authorities.
Friends and family remembered Aldama as someone who loved motorcycles, often referencing the saying, “If you want to be happy for a lifetime, ride a motorcycle.”
