Community Mourns Fallon Teen Hunter Goodbear After Fatal Sideshow Incident
RENO, Nevada — The close-knit town of Fallon is grappling with grief following the tragic passing of 19-year-old Hunter N. Goodbear, who lost his life after being struck in a hit-and-run crash during a car “sideshow” event in Reno early Sunday morning. According to the Washoe County Regional Medical Examiner’s Office, Goodbear was officially pronounced deceased on Tuesday at Renown Regional Medical Center. ()
The incident occurred during a sideshow—a large gathering where drivers perform stunts and reckless maneuvers for spectators—near the intersection of Riggins Court and Meadow Wood Lane in south Reno, at approximately 1:33 a.m. on Sunday. (KRNV) Evidence indicates a vehicle involved in the event veered into the crowd or pedestrians, striking Goodbear. The driver did not stop, and a hit-and-run investigation was launched. ()
Law enforcement agencies quickly responded. The Reno Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) is leading the investigation, supported by the Tri-Net Task Force and other regional partners. On November 5, authorities located the suspect vehicle in Fallon and identified a person of interest believed to have been driving the car at the time of the crash. (KRNV) According to official statements, Goodbear’s manner of death was ruled an accident, with the cause listed as multiple blunt-force injuries sustained during the pedestrian–sedan collision. (KRNV)
Hunter Goodbear grew up in Fallon and was known to family, friends, and community members as respectful, friendly, and full of potential. Though still in his teens, those who knew him say he held big dreams and showed sincerity in his everyday interactions. “He was always there for his friends, always had a kind word,” said a childhood friend who recalled Hunter’s quiet leadership and empathy. His passing has left a void across his hometown and beyond.
In the immediate aftermath of the crash, the Reno community expressed an outpouring of support for the Goodbear family. A vigil was held, and many left candles, handwritten notes, and flowers near the scene where the crash occurred. A GoFundMe campaign organized by Hunter’s loved ones was launched to assist with medical bills, funeral expenses and the family’s recovery from the unexpected loss. ()
The incident has sparked renewed concern about the dangers posed by sideshow events. These automotive exhibitions, often held on public streets without permits or safety measures, have increasingly been linked to serious injuries and deaths. Police and public safety officials now emphasize the urgency of avoiding such gatherings, obeying traffic laws, and maintaining public safety for all. “This is the tragic result of reckless behavior,” said a spokesperson for the Reno Police Department. “Lives are at stake when safety is ignored.”
Investigators are working painstakingly to build a complete picture of the event: reviewing surveillance video, gathering eyewitness testimony, tracking communications on social media, and analyzing vehicle damage and mechanical evidence. While the suspect vehicle has been identified, the driver has not yet been publicly charged. Authorities have urged anyone with information—whether photographic, video, or observation—to contact the Reno Police Department or call Secret Witness at 775-322-4900. (KRV)
As Fallon and Reno communities brace themselves in the wake of loss, the message remains clear: Hunter Goodbear’s passing is not just a statistic. He was a much-loved young man whose life ended far too soon, and his memory now serves both as a reminder and a call to action. “We want to honor him in a way he would’ve loved,” reads a statement from his family. “With laughter, stories, and a gathering of all who cared.” ()
In these moments of mourning, the community rallies. The Goodbear family asks for privacy as they navigate this heartbreak, and has thanked everyone for the compassion, prayers and support they have received. As authorities continue their work, one hope persists: that through answers and accountability, meaningful change and safer streets may emerge in memory of Hunter N. Goodbear.
Tags:
#HunterGoodbear #FallonNevada #RenoSideshow #HitAndRun #TeenAccident #CommunityMourns
