A fatal single-vehicle collision occurred in Moreno Valley on January 12, 2026. According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, deputies from the Moreno Valley Sheriff’s Station responded to a report of a crash at the intersection of Iris Avenue and Via Del Lago at approximately 3:16 a.m.
When deputies arrived, they found a vehicle with major damage. The driver, identified as Karina Samano, a 22-year-old resident of Moreno Valley, was the only occupant. She sustained significant injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Traffic Reconstruction Team from the Moreno Valley Sheriff’s Station is leading the investigation into the cause of the collision. Authorities stated that it is not yet known if alcohol or drugs were involved. “The cause of the collision is still under investigation, and it is unknown if alcohol and/or drugs were a factor in the collision. This investigation is ongoing and no additional information is available at this time,” according to officials.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Deputy Jason Slover at (951) 486–6700 or reach out to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office at (951) 776–1099.
For media inquiries regarding this incident please contact the Media Information Bureau.
Those interested in pursuing a career with the department are encouraged to apply online at joinrso.org
