WEST JORDAN, Utah – Authorities have identified a suspect linked to a deadly hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of a motorcyclist late last month.
The West Jordan Police Department is searching for Erasmo Onofre-Rodriguez, also known by the names “Ponciano” and “Toshiro.” Police described him as having multiple tattoos on his left forearm, including one that reads “Alejandro.” Officials urge anyone with knowledge of his location to call 801-840-4000 and reference case number WJ25-15827.
Incident Overview
The fatal collision occurred on the night of March 25, with first responders arriving at the scene shortly after 8:30 p.m. The injured motorcyclist was taken to the hospital but later succumbed to their injuries.
The following day, on March 26, investigators received a tip about a potential sighting of the suspect’s vehicle in a residential area. After searching law enforcement databases, authorities determined the vehicle’s registered owner was Sabino Lazaro.
Arrest and Investigation
On March 27, police arrested Lazaro on obstruction of justice charges. His 2002 GMC Yukon was identified as the SUV captured on surveillance footage at the crash site. During the investigation, officers discovered part of a motorcycle helmet in the passenger seat, along with fabric and a backpack strap lodged in damaged sections of the vehicle.
Initially, Lazaro told authorities his SUV had been stolen on the day of the crash. However, during questioning, he later admitted that he had knowledge of the incident and knew who had been behind the wheel. According to his statements, Onofre-Rodriguez had contacted him shortly after the collision, detailing what had happened.
Later that night, Lazaro falsely reported his vehicle as stolen after speaking with the suspect. Investigators also found that he had deleted phone call records from Onofre-Rodriguez that could have been crucial to the case.
The case remains under investigation, and law enforcement continues to search for Onofre-Rodriguez.
Legal Disclaimer: All individuals facing charges are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
