Bicyclist struck by alleged DUI driver near Newport Harbor High identified

A Newport Beach resident who died in the hospital last week after his bicycle was struck by an alleged DUI driver near the intersection of 16th Street and Irvine Avenue has been identified by the Orange County coroner’s office.

Ernest Adams, 80, was riding his bike near Newport Harbor High School at around 3:15 p.m. on March 28 when he collided with a vehicle driven by Alexis Garcialopez, 20, of Norwalk, Newport Beach Police Department spokeswoman Heather Rangel confirmed Monday.

Adams was transported to a nearby hospital with major injuries. A release issued by the coroner’s office indicated Adams was taken to Orange County Global Medical Center in Santa Ana, where he reportedly succumbed to his injuries at 1:42 a.m. on March 29.

Garcialopez was arrested by Newport Beach Police officers for causing bodily injury while driving under the influence. No further information on the suspect’s detention was available Monday afternoon.

Nearby Newport Harbor High was not in session when the collision took place, as the incident occurred on a Sunday, but residents have complained of increased traffic and distracted drivers in the area during the school’s pick-up and drop-off area. Rangel said Monday the incident was still under investigation.

Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber.