BAKERSFIELD, CALIFORNIA — Authorities have identified the bicyclist who tragically lost his life after being struck by a City of Bakersfield Fire Department vehicle on October 31, 2025. The Kern County Coroner’s Office confirmed the victim as 32-year-old Bruce Edward Hall Jr., a resident of Bakersfield. His passing has deeply saddened the local community, as investigators continue working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
According to the Bakersfield Police Department (BPD), the incident occurred around 10:00 a.m. at the busy intersection of 4th Street and Union Avenue, a well-traveled area of the city. Emergency responders, including both police and paramedics, rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a collision involving a bicyclist and a city-operated vehicle. Upon arrival, first responders found Hall critically injured. He was immediately transported to Kern Medical, where, despite extensive life-saving efforts, he later succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities confirmed that the vehicle involved in the crash was operated by an on-duty Arson Investigator from the Bakersfield Fire Department. The driver remained at the scene and fully cooperated with law enforcement officers. This level of cooperation, officials said, is standard protocol in incidents involving government vehicles and assists investigators in ensuring transparency and accuracy throughout the process.
The BPD’s Traffic Investigation Unit took the lead on the case, conducting a detailed scene analysis that included measuring skid marks, reviewing traffic signal data, and interviewing witnesses. Investigators worked meticulously to document every detail, recognizing the importance of gathering complete and reliable information before determining fault or cause.
Based on preliminary findings, police believe Hall was traveling westbound on 4th Street when he entered the intersection against a red light, proceeding into the path of northbound traffic on Union Avenue. It was at this point that the collision with the Fire Department’s vehicle occurred. However, officials stressed that this determination remains preliminary, pending further review of evidence, including mechanical inspections and additional witness statements.
The Bakersfield Police Department continues to encourage anyone who witnessed the crash or may have relevant information to contact investigators. Authorities extended their deepest condolences to the family and friends of Bruce Edward Hall Jr., emphasizing that the ongoing investigation seeks not only to determine cause but also to bring clarity and closure to those affected by this heartbreaking loss.
