Alleged DUI in Yucca Valley being charged as murder; CHP arrests one at scene
UPDATED 2:30 p.m.:
A fatal collision in Yucca Valley is under investigation for Driving Under the Influence (DUI), and the driver of one of the vehicles is being charged with murder.
The California Highway Patrol identified the deceased as James Tappon, a 69 year-old resident of Yucca Valley.
The CHP identfied the suspect as Forrest Stibbens, a 68 year-old resident of Yucca Valley. The say that on October 31 at around 3:00 p.m. Stibbens was driving a 2009 Dodge Durango northbound on Yucca Mesa Road, north of Sunflower Drive and Tappon was was driving a 2015 Ford Fiesta southbound on Yucca Mesa Road. The CHP said Stibbens crossed over the solid double yellow line and the front the Dodge struck the front of the Ford, causing major damage to both vehicles. Stibbens sustained major injuries.
County records show that Forrest Stibbens, Jr, 68, was arrested at 3:30 p.m. for investigation into murder and charges related to DUI causing bodily injury.
Stibbens is being held without bail, and is expected to be arraigned in San Bernardino County Superior Court on Wednesday (November 5) on one count of murder, two counts of DUI causing bodily injury, and two counts of gross vehicular manslaughter.
