[12-08-2020] Orange County, CA – Two People Killed After a DUI Crash in Newport Beach

Two people were killed while three children were seriously hurt after a suspected DUI car crash in Newport Beach on Tuesday evening, December 8.

According to the initial reports from local authorities, the accident occurred near Pelican Hill Road and Newport Coast Drive at around 7:26 p.m. A Range Rover ran a red light in the intersection and collided with a Nissan. The driver of the Range Rover was later identified as 22-year-old Grace Coleman. Authorities determined that she was driving while under the influence at the time of the accident.

A married couple riding along with their three children were riding the Nissan. The married couple was identified as Henry Saldana-Mejia and Gabriela Andrade. They were both killed in the crash.

Three of their children sustained life-threatening injuries and are currently in critical condition in a hospital. Coleman sustained minor injuries from the accident. She was taken to a hospital for treatment and was later arrested on suspicion of felony DUI and hit-and-run, resulting in death.

“Everyone knows how dangerous drinking and driving or using drugs and driving is, and that it is a crime. Yet repeatedly, people choose to get behind the wheel after drinking or using drugs, and they are killing innocent people and destroying lives. This has to stop.” Orange County District Atty. Todd Spitzer said in a statement.

It was also reported how the suspect left her vehicle and attempted to leave the scene after the crash. Newport Beach officers were able to quickly locate her within the area and take her into custody.

“Three young girls are orphans because of the selfish decision of a stranger,” Atty. Spitzer added.

Fatal DUI Car Crash Investigation is Underway

Local authorities are currently investigating the case. It is apparent in this case that the liability falls on the hit-and-run DUI driver for driving while under the influence and leaving the scene before the authorities arrived.

Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is one of the most reckless and dangerous things a driver can do. It won’t only endanger their lives, but they can potentially put other drivers at risk on the roadway.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics, DUI accidents kill 30 people in the U.S. every day. DUI accidents in the U.S. account for approximately 29 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities. Sixty-one percent of these drunk drivers have a Blood Alcohol Content percentage of .08 and higher.

When facing cases like this, it’s essential to have an experienced Orange County wrongful death attorney specializing in DUI accident cases to conduct an independent probe. Attorneys have the resources to help prove the negligence of the liable party. They can re-interview important witnesses, review related surveillance footage from the scene, and obtain phone and texting records of the responsible party.

I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT

Orange County Wrongful Death Attorney for Victims of Fatal DUI Accidents

It can be quite stressful and overwhelming to suddenly lose a loved one due to a fatal DUI car accident. While waiting for the official investigation results, the victim’s family is encouraged to pursue a wrongful death claim with the help of their attorney. Through the wrongful death claim, the victim’s family can seek compensation for the damages (such as loss of companionship and income, pain and suffering, and emotional distress) that the accident has caused them.

Attorneys can survive as a helpful legal guide during these difficult times for the grieving family. They will vigorously fight for their client’s rights while ensuring that the negligent driver will be held accountable for their suspected crime.

If you have a nagging suspicion that someone is to blame for the death of your spouse or family member, contact Arash Law. We have the resources you need to pursue justice for wrongful death, as well as the experience to ensure that you get fair compensation. We’re conveniently located throughout the state of California with offices in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, Riverside, Orange County, San Diego, and are more than happy to visit you at your home or office.