Rory Antoine, 61, was killed in a crash involving a dump truck that slammed into the Anaheim apartment complex where he lived.
According to a KABC news report, the dump truck’s driver drove through a red light, struck two cars, plowed into a carport, and then slammed into two apartment units at the complex. Family members said Antoine was likely working from home at the time of the crash.
Ongoing Investigation
Residents of the apartment complex helped pull the dump truck’s driver, who was later identified as 54-year-old Raphael Pacheco, from the mangled vehicle. Pacheco and the driver of another car involved in the crash were transported to an area hospital for evaluation.
California Highway Patrol officials have said based on a preliminary investigation that alcohol or drugs were not factors in this crash. They are still looking into whether there was a mechanical issue with the dump truck or whether the driver suffered a medical episode, officials said. No charges have been filed against Pacheco pending an official investigation. Several units in the apartment complex were deemed uninhabitable displacing several residents.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of Rory Antoine for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Causes and Compensation Issues
Based on this news report, the investigation into what caused this deadly crash is still ongoing. It appears that the driver of the dump truck had no control of the vehicle as he blew through a red light, struck other vehicles, and crashed into the building. We trust officials are still looking into potential mitigating factors, such as whether the driver had a medical condition at the time, or whether there were problems with the vehicle’s brakes that prevented the driver from stopping the truck in time.
In such cases, several parties could potentially be held liable for the injuries, damages, and losses caused. This will depend on the cause of the crash but could include the driver, his or her employer, or the vehicle manufacturer. Families of deceased victims may be able to file a wrongful death claim against several parties, depending on what the investigation reveals, seeking compensation for damages including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering, and loss of love, care, and companionship. An experienced Orange County car accident lawyer will be able to better advise victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.
Source: https://abc7.com/corsican-apartments-dump-truck-crash-anaheim-in/10975382/