Riverside County authorities have filed criminal charges against a sheriff’s deputy involved in a high-speed crash that killed a man and severely injured his fiancée. Deputy Glynn Wilburn, 42, is accused of running a red light at approximately 100 mph and colliding with another vehicle in Beaumont on the morning of September 6, 2025.
Wilburn faces one count of gross vehicular manslaughter, felony reckless driving causing serious bodily injury, and a bodily injury enhancement allegation, according to a statement from the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office. The collision occurred on Cherry Valley Boulevard as Wilburn responded to a reported shooting, driving with lights and sirens activated.
Prosecutors stated that Wilburn entered the intersection at about 71 mph when the crash happened. The driver of the civilian vehicle, later identified as 21-year-old Gavin Hinkley, was killed, and his 20-year-old fiancée, Madeline Fox, suffered severe injuries. The couple had been running errands related to their upcoming wedding.
District Attorney Michael Hestrin emphasized that his office assesses evidence independently and applies the law equally, regardless of the accused’s occupation. He noted the added responsibility when cases involve on-duty law enforcement, requiring careful consideration of the circumstances, including the nature of the call and legal standards governing emergency vehicle operations.
The victims’ families have filed a civil lawsuit against Wilburn and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office. The complaint claims that although the deputy began braking shortly before impact, he was still traveling near 98 mph moments earlier. The suit asserts that Wilburn’s excessive speed and decision to run the red light were negligent.
Spencer Lucas, an attorney representing the families, argued that officers must maintain reasonable safety standards even in emergency responses. “There’s no excuse for a cowboy cop to be barreling down a two-lane road through a red light,” Lucas said. “This tragic crash was completely preventable.”
In statements, the families expressed that while justice cannot undo their loss, the criminal charges are a significant step forward. Lauren and Cory Hinkley described Gavin as a beloved son and fiancé whose life was full of promise. Melissa and Jason Fox highlighted that law enforcement privileges must be exercised with regard for public safety and insisted that no position should exempt anyone from accountability.
Before the collision, a law enforcement dispatcher had confirmed that deputies were already on scene and reported no injuries, with the suspect having left the area. The Riverside Sheriffs’ Association did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The investigation and legal proceedings remain ongoing.