The tight-knit community of Fallon and the greater Reno area is coming together in shock and sorrow after the tragic death of 19-year-old Hunter N. Goodbear. The Fallon resident was struck and killed during a reckless “sideshow” event in Reno in the small hours of Sunday, November 2, and was later pronounced dead at Renown Regional Medical Center.
Authorities with the Washoe County Regional Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the manner of death an accident and reported the cause as complications from multiple blunt-force injuries sustained in a collision between a pedestrian and a sedan.
Police say the crash occurred around 1:30 a.m. at the intersection of Riggins Court and Meadowood Lane, where a crowd had gathered to watch multiple vehicles performing stunts and driving recklessly. One sedan, believed to be a white Lexus IS300, fled the scene immediately after the collision. Investigators classify the gathering as a sideshow — an illegal event where vehicles spin donuts, drift and gather an audience.
Within days, law-enforcement action followed. In late November 5, officers with the Reno Police Department, aided by the Tri‑Net Task Force and MAIT Investigators, located the suspect vehicle in Fallon thanks to a surge of public tips. A person of interest in the death has been identified, though no formal arrest has yet been announced and the investigation remains open.
Hunter’s family has since launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical and funeral costs, and shared a message that speaks to the deep hole his absence leaves behind. They describe Hunter as someone who “loved deeply and always made sure those around him were safe.” They hope to hold a peaceful cruise around Reno in his honor, to share stories, hold each other close and celebrate his memory with love and laughter.
Beyond the personal tragedy, the incident has reignited concern about the dangers of sideshows. Police urge anyone with information about the crash, the white Lexus IS300 or anyone involved to call the Reno Police non-emergency line or submit tips to Secret Witness. A reward of $1,000 has been offered for information leading to an arrest.
As the investigation continues, friends, classmates and community members reflect on how someone so young had their future cut short. Hunter’s loss is a stark reminder of how quickly a night of thrill-seeking can turn into a lifelong grief for those left behind. His community is grieving, remembering him not just for how he died, but for how he lived.