In a tragic incident, Vacaville Police Officer Matthew Bowen, 32, lost his life on Thursday after being hit from behind by a vehicle driven by Serena Rodriguez, 24, who was attempting to flee the scene of a crash. Amid the investigation, it was revealed that Rodriguez had an active bench warrant for her arrest in Placer County at the time of the incident.

According to authorities, Officer Bowen was conducting a traffic stop when Rodriguez's vehicle collided with his motorcycle at the intersection of Leisure Town Road and Orange Drive. The California Highway Patrol promptly apprehended Rodriguez, who had attempted to flee the scene.

Further inquiries unveiled that Rodriguez had been charged in November 2022 in Placer County for intentionally flooding her apartment. She was arraigned the following month, but later picked up additional charges while out on bail. On December 11, 2022, she was arrested again during a disturbance and was found to be in possession of a fixed-blade knife, resulting in another felony charge.

In March 2023, Rodriguez received a sentence of one year in custody and an additional two years on mandatory supervision for her crimes. However, upon her release, she failed to comply with the mandatory supervision program, prompting the judge to order her back into custody. Rodriguez subsequently violated the terms of her reinstatement and began missing court dates, culminating in the issuance of a bench warrant for her arrest on March 25, 2024.

Rodriguez was booked into Solano County Jail on Thursday, facing charges of homicide, driving under the influence causing injury and/or death, and providing false identification to a police officer. While she had a court date scheduled for August 12 regarding a violation during mandatory supervision in 2023, her case involving Officer Bowen's death will take precedence.

The community of Vacaville mourns the loss of Officer Matthew Bowen, who served as the first Vacaville police officer to be killed in the line of duty. A somber procession was held in his honor, with streets filled with first responders and community members paying their respects as his body was moved through the city.

The Vacaville Police Department has shared two links to funds dedicated to supporting Bowen's family. Those who wish to contribute can do so through the Vacaville Police Foundation and PORAC Fund A Hero funds.

Rodriguez's next court appearance is scheduled for Monday at 1:30 p.m., where she will face the charges related to Officer Bowen's untimely death.