Last Updated on January 9, 2023 by CCAR Staff
RANCHO CUCAMONGA >> The bail hearing for a man accused of crashing into a tree killing an Ontario CarMax employee last month was moved to Monday.
Clad in an orange jumpsuit and his arm in a sling, Alex Demetro, 28, of Union City was in West Valley Superior Court in Rancho Cucamonga Tuesday morning for a bail hearing.
Demetro reportedly took a Corvette from the car dealership on a test drive on Feb. 23. On his way back to the dealership, it is alleged he lost control, slammed into a tree and killed the salesman, Warran Smale, according to reports.
Witnesses told investigators the car was seen speeding before the car lost control and crashed, police said.
Demetro was taken to an area hospital for his injuries and was arrested following his release. He was able to pay his $100,000 bond and was released.
On March 7, the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office filed charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, driving while under the influence of a drug causing injury, and driving when privilege suspended or revoked with priors charges against the 28-year-old husband and father, court records show.
The same day charges were filed, the Ontario Police Department issued a $500,000 fugitive warrant for Demetro’s arrest. He turned himself in Friday.
Judge Stephen Saleson noted that despite an arrest warrant being issued, Demetro had not missed any court dates.
Saleson moved the bail hearing to Monday. Until then, his bail remains at $500,000.
During a bail hearing, the defense or the prosecution can argue to have a defendant’s bail reduced or increased. Both sides want a change in Demetro’s bail.
The case is still under investigation. Anyone with information regarding the case is asked to call Ontario Police Officer Brian Olivo at 909-395-4646. Callers wishing to remain anonymous can dial WeTip at 800-78-CRIME (27463).
