Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the fatal hit and rank rush that killed a Southern California man.
Brodia Lombard, 20, and Lake Amber Lauren Ribanos, a resident of Lake Elsinore, were arrested in the death of Josh Nichols, 44, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office.
On February 18th, around 1am, Nichols was walking home with his dog after being attacked by a vehicle on Riverside Drive, just west of Baker Street on Lake Elsinore.
Deputies arrive discover that Nichols was injured and lying on the street. He was declared dead at the scene. The driver fled before authorities arrived.
The only explanation the agent had was that the escaped car was likely a dark-colored vehicle that caused front-end damage.
Investigators gathered enough information to identify the suspect, with help from the public.
The victim, Josh Nichols, 44, and his child, can be seen in a family photo. The victim, Josh Nichols, 44, can be seen in a family photo. Along Riverside Drive on Lake Elsinore, you can see a makeshift memorial honoring Josh Nichols. (KTLA) Riverside Drive on Lake Elsinore. (KTLA) Jason Nichols, the victim’s brother, will speak to KTLA on February 20, 2025. He hopes the hit and run driver will be caught soon. (KTLA) Josh Nichols is seen with close friends in personal photos. Josh Nichols is seen in a personal photo with his best friend, Jeff Hippen.
On February 20, deputies discovered the suspect’s car and left the home on Lake Elsinore to stop traffic on the suspect whose bird was arrested. The second suspect, Lievanos, was later identified and was taken into custody on the same day.
After interviewing Bird and Lievanos, they were booked at the Cois Byrd detention center. Lievanos was booked on vehicle manslaughter charges, and Bird was booked for accessories after the facts.
The circumstances surrounding the fatal crash fall remain unknown, but Nichols’ friends believe that his dog, Woodson, could have somehow broken off from his leash.
His loved ones described Nichols as a kind person and always providing support to those in need. He leaves young children and friends and family.
Here is a GoFundMe link to help Nichols families with funeral costs.
Police said Nichols’ dog Woodson remains missing. No further details have been made public as the case is under investigation.
The victim’s dog, Woodson, remains missing and can be seen in a family photo.
Anyone with additional information about the case can call the Deputy Keyser at Lake Elsinore Sheriff Station at 951-245-3300 or the Riverside Sheriff’s dispatch at 951-776-1099.
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