Sarina Rodriguez, 25, tragically died after a rock was thrown through her windshield on a Southern California highway, and the search for her killer continues. The incident took place on October 8 when Sarina and her boyfriend, Franko Martínez, were driving home to Lancaster. The couple was traveling on Highway 138, east of Highway 18 in Antelope Valley, around 12:10 a.m. when the tragedy occurred.
Martínez recalled the terrifying moment when he heard a sudden click and saw Sarina, who was behind the wheel, lose consciousness. Acting quickly, he grabbed the steering wheel to stop the vehicle safely. That’s when he noticed a hole in the windshield. Somewhere on the road, a suspect threw a rock that broke the glass and hit Sarina, killing her instantly.
After stopping, Martínez immediately contacted authorities. Despite an extensive search of the area, no suspects were located. Martinez told KTLA’s Shelby Nelson that he saw another vehicle passing in the opposite direction just before he hit the rock. “Before reaching the curve, a vehicle came with headlights and then (I heard) a pop noise,” he explained to The Independent.
It is not yet clear whether the rock was thrown from a passing vehicle or whether someone standing on the side of the road was responsible. Authorities are investigating both possibilities. This incident follows a similar attack just two days earlier, on October 6, when another driver reported being hit by a rock in the same area around 11:30 pm, injuring two people.
On October 10, the Lancaster Sheriff’s Station reported that a suspect, Alexander Veloz, had been arrested for allegedly throwing rocks at vehicles the same morning Sarina was killed. However, investigators have not yet confirmed whether Veloz is linked to Sarina’s case or the previous incident. His arrest took place near Avenue F and Sierra Highway, more than 40 miles from where Sarina was hit.
Sarina’s family is devastated by the loss of their beloved daughter and sister. “He was so happy,” shared his sister Sylvia Pérez. “My sister was full of life.” Her father, Danny Rodriguez, echoed these sentiments, saying, “She was very happy.” The family continues to deal with unanswered questions and hopes that the person responsible will be brought to justice soon. “I just want to see justice,” Danny said. Her brother, George Rodríguez, added: “She is something we can never get back. “I really hope they find the (suspect).”
To honor Sarina’s memory, her family plans to place a large wooden cross near the site of the incident. A GoFundMe page has also been created to help the Rodriguez family with funeral expenses. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. “Please report any suspicious activity in the area to the authorities because it is time to catch this person,” urged a loved one.
The California Highway Patrol Southern Division Major Crimes Unit and the CHP Antelope Valley Area are actively investigating these incidents. Detectives are asking the community for help. Anyone with information can call the California Highway Patrol at 323-259-3200.
