[06-26-2021] Los Angeles County, CA – One Killed, 4 Injured After a Major DUI Crash on Buckingham Road

One woman was killed while four others were injured, including two Los Angeles Police Department Officers, after a DUI driver crashed into a home in Baldwin Hills early Saturday morning, June 26.

The major accident happened at approximately 1:23 a.m. in the 3901 block of S Buckingham Road near W 39th Street. The SUV initially rear-ended an LAPD patrol car at a red light. Officers attempted to apprehend the driver, but the suspect drove away.

As the SUV driver approached Buckingham Road, he attempted to turn but lost control of his vehicle and slammed into a one-story house, severing a natural gas line. The SUV crashed directly into an elderly couple’s bedroom. The elderly couple were trapped inside the bedroom and were rescued by emergency personnel.

Unfortunately, the 86-year-old woman who was occupying the bedroom was killed in the crash. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The elderly man in the bedroom was seriously injured from the accident, and he was immediately rushed to an area hospital for treatment. The two LAPD officers sustained minor injuries but declined hospital treatment.

The SUV driver was also injured; he sustained minor injuries and was also treated at the hospital. He was later identified as 26-year-old Eliseo I. He was booked on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter. He was being held in lieu of $100,000 bail, arrest records stated. An active investigation of the case is currently ongoing.

Fatal DUI Crash Statistics

It is apparent in this case that the liability will fall on the SUV driver as he was proven to be driving while under the influence at the time of the accident. Driving while under the influence is one of the most reckless and dangerous things a driver can do. It won’t only endanger their own lives, but it can potentially put other drivers on the roadway at risk as well. Unfortunately, DUI accidents in the U.S. have been on the rise over recent years.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 30 people in the U.S. die every day due to drunk driving accidents. Drunk driving accounts for about 29 percent of all motor vehicle accident fatalities in the U.S. Around sixty-one percent of these drivers have a Blood Alcohol Content of .08 percent or higher.

Drivers who operate their vehicles aggressively or recklessly are putting other people’s lives unnecessarily at risk. Innocent people shouldn’t have to suffer due to someone’s careless actions on the road. Drivers who operate their vehicles in such a manner should be held liable for the damages and injuries they cause.

Wrongful Death Claim for Victims of Fatal DUI Crashes in Los Angeles County

One of the most disturbing things about DUI wrecks is that they are disproportionately likely to result in fatalities or severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), broken bones, internal organ injuries, spinal cord damage, and partial or total paralysis. The sudden unexpected death of a loved one can be quite confusing, among other things. You shouldn’t have to be confused or overwhelmed with wrongful death laws during this emotionally difficult time.

At Arash Law, we are proud to be aggressive advocates for the victim’s family. Our law firm does not represent defendants, nor does it serve insurance companies. We use our skills, knowledge, and legal experience to fight for the interests of injured victims. Following an accident, you and your family need the very best California DUI victim lawyer on your side. You may also contact us through our hotline (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation with one of our attorneys.