Sacramento man convicted of DUI-Involved Murder of Bicyclist on American River Trail

The Sacramento County DA announced a jury has convicted a man of second-degree murder for the death of a bicyclist on the American River Bike Trail.

On March 20, 2023, Armando Moreno-Rodrigeuz was convicted by a jury of the second-degree murder of Michael Dodson, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, hit and run, and driving on a suspended license.

Moreno-Rodriguez had three prior misdemeanor convictions for DUI and was given a Watson advisement, which is an advisement that driving under the influence is extremely dangerous to human life and might lead to a charge of murder if someone is killed as a result.  In June 2021, Moreno-Rodriguez drove through a main gate and onto the American River bike path. He drove at speeds of 35 mph for approximately 4 miles before colliding with a cyclist, who was a member of the Sacramento Wheelman. After the collision, Moreno-Rodriguez kept driving until his car shut down due to the damage.  The victim suffered major injuries and eventually died one month later. Moreno-Rodriguez’s blood alcohol level was .27.

Moreno-Rodriguez faces a maximum sentence of 15 years and 8 months to life in state prison. Sentencing is scheduled for June 9, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. in Department 42 before the Honorable Allen Sumner.