Hit-and-run trial continued as attorneys seek resolution; jury trial expected to begin 2/24

Troy Reynolds, the suspect in a 2024 hit-and-run collision that killed Yucca Valley teenager Joshua Barreras, returned to court yesterday morning for a trial readiness Hearing before Judge Sarah Oliver. District Attorney Jason Gueltzow was present for the prosecution, as was Attorney James Rogan for the defense. 

The two attorneys were seen in negotiations throughout much of the morning, and Judge Oliver noted they had held two chambers conferences by the time proceedings began at nearly noon. While the jury trial was scheduled to begin on February 17, Gueltzow explained that the prosecution had issues with the availability of its witnesses. Further, they had requested additional documentation related to Barreras’ medical records from the Hi-Desert Medical Center, as well as ambulance-run reports and reports from the San Bernardino County Fire Department. Rogan confirmed that he would also need time to review all the retrieved documents and had additional questions for the Sheriff’s Department. 

Both Guetzlow and Rogan expressed to the Court that they had been working towards a resolution, with the progress made that day being their most significant throughout the duration of the case. Judge Oliver ordered the two attorneys to confer on February 17 and scheduled a trial readiness hearing for February 20, with jury trial to begin February 24.

Troy Reynolds is charged with Felony Hit and Run Resulting in Permanent Injury or Death; he is currently out on $500,000 bail.