Victorville man, 36, arrested for pistol-whipping a 16-year-old riding a bike

ADELANTO, Calif. (VVNG.com) — Rudy Tovar, 36, a resident of Victorville, was arrested after he pistol-whipped a teen riding a bike, officials said.

It happened on October 16, 2019, in the area of Cobalt and Aster Roads in the unincorporated area of Victorville.

Sheriff’s officials released a report about the incident and said at about 9:45 am, the 16-year-old victim was riding his bicycle when he was approached by the suspect.

“The suspect approached the victim wielding a semi-automatic handgun and began yelling obscenities at the victim about riding his bicycle in the area. The suspect struck the victim on the left side of his head with the pistol and the weapon simultaneously discharged,” stated the release.

Officials said the victim sustained minor injuries as a result of the assault.

Through investigation, Deputies Kleveno and Vanden Bossche were able to locate the suspect’s red Ford F150 at his residence about a 1/2 mile north of the incident location.

A search warrant for his arrest was issued and on Monday, October 21, 2019, deputies from the Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station and San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Departments Regional Gang Team executed the search at Tovar’s residence in the 14400 block of Cobalt Road.

Officials said Tovar was taken into custody without incident and booked at High Desert Detention Center.

Inside the home, deputies found a black 9mm Springfield and is believed to be the weapon used in the commission of the crime. 

According to public arrest records, Tovar was released on bail and is no longer in custody. He was charged with PC273A(A) and PC245(A)(2).

Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to contact Deputy T. Kleveno or C. Vanden Bossche at Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station, (760) 552-6800. Persons wishing to remain anonymous can report information to WeTip by calling 1-800-78-CRIME, or by accessing the website at www.wetip.com.