Hit-and-run suspect pleads “not guilty” in death of wheelchair-bound woman in Yucca Valley

The suspect in a fatal hit-and-run that left a Yucca Valley woman dead appeared in court on Monday (July 27).

Linda Ybarra, 61, is accused of leaving the scene of a fatal traffic collision that occurred on November 6. The collision occurred at the intersection of Airway Avenue and Primrose Drive in Yucca Valley. The victim was identified as Kim Hicks, a 55 year-old resident of Yucca Valley. Deputies say Hicks was crossing the road in an electric wheelchair with a dog. They say that Ybarra nid not stop, render aid, or call emergency services before fleeing.

Ybarra was arrested on June 9, based on a lengthy Sheriff’s Department investigation involving eyewitness testimony. Ybarra was released on bail on June 17, and returned to San Bernardino County Superior Court’s Joshua Tree courthouse on Monday for an arraignment.

Ybarra was arraigned on one felony count of Hit and Run Resulting in Perm Injury or Death. Her attorney entered a plea of “not guilty.” If convicted, Ybarra faces up to four years in prison.