The San Diego Zoo is mourning the loss of a senior mammal keeper.
Adam Ruble was killed Sunday night after running into fast moving traffic on Interstate 15 just south of Miramar Way, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Ruble's car was on the center divide when he ran out onto the freeway and was struck by a one car and then several other vehicles, the CHP said. His unoccupied car was working and had half a tank of gas.
There are a lot of unanswered questions as to why he ran into traffic. One CHP officer called it, “baffling.” It does not appear drugs or alcohol were involved.
Those who cared about Ruble are stunned and heartbroken.
“He was very well liked and dedicated to his profession of animal care,” said zoo spokesperson Christina Simmons.
Ruble worked at the San Diego Zoo since 2005. He went to Australia in 2008 to work at the Melbourne Zoo for three months and returned to the San Diego Zoo where he worked with zebras and polar bears.
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“It's a disbelief. He's too vibrant, too alive,” said neighbor Ted Adams. “ I expect to see him jump the steps there and just start shouting ‘hello.’ When we were both home we kept our doors open.”
Duke Prinh, 32, was also shocked to hear that his neighbor had died.
“He was talking about going to law school and try to become a lawyer and maybe fight for animal rights, which he loves. He loves animals. I feel very sad. My deepest sympathies to the family,” said Prinh.
He said his neighbor was sincere and called him the “nicest guy.”
The CHP is working with the Medical Examiner's Office to piece together the puzzle. If you have any information regarding this case, you’re asked to call the CHP.
