LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — Bail has been set at $100,000 for Elijah Malone, 26, accused of fleeing the scene of a fatal crash that killed 28-year-old Ivan Aguilera on June 4.
Malone appeared in Las Vegas Justice Court on Friday, the day after his arrest for the hit-and-run incident. Prosecutors allege he attempted to conceal his vehicle and forged his timecard to mislead authorities regarding his whereabouts at the time of the accident.
The prosecution requested a bail amount of $200,000, citing the severity of the charges and Malone's lack of a verified address, indicating he may pose a flight risk. In contrast, Malone's attorney argued for his release on recognizance, claiming surveillance footage shows Malone searching for the victim post-collision and asserting that his cellphone data would corroborate his presence at the crash site.
According to the defense, Malone could not locate Aguilera in the dark, and the victim's body was discovered the following day. The attorney further noted Malone's decision to cover his car was due to strict homeowners association guidelines. Following police contact with the vehicle's registered owner, Malone reportedly offered to surrender.
After considering both sides, pro tem Judge Holly Stoberski ruled in favor of bail, also imposing conditions including high-level electronic monitoring and restrictions on driving, allowing only travel to and from work. Malone's next court appearance is set for Tuesday, July 7.