Maria Magdalena Lewis, a 71-year-old Garden Grove woman is dead after her Honda Accord was struck by another driver who police say was driving under the influnce of alcohol and ran a red light. According to an article in The Orange County Register, Lewis was driving home from her job at the Angel stadium when she was hit by 45-year-old Miguel Angel Gallardo of Anaheim, who was driving a GMC Yukon.
Lewis reportedly died on the scene, and a passenger who was with her in the Honda suffered injuries. Gallardo has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and vehicular manslaughter. Police say Gallardo also ran a red light at the intersection of Orangewood Avenue and 9th Street in Anaheim as he struck Lewis’ vehicle.
My heart goes out to Lewis’ family. This was an unnecessary, and senseless tragedy – one of many drunk driving accidents in Orange County, which have led to the loss of a life. It is another reminder to all drivers out there to refrain from drinking and driving. It is not only illegal but just plain irresponsible. Not only do drunk drivers put others in serious danger, but they also risk their own life and well-being.
According to the Orange County Chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (www.maddorangecounty.org), Orange County sees at least one alcohol-related traffic fatality in four days. About 2,000 alcohol-related traffic injuries occur each day in Orange County. This is an appalling and unacceptable number.
We hope Mr. Gallardo is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and if found guilty, he should serve the maximum sentence. We hope Ms. Lewis’ family gets the justice they rightfully deserve. Gallardo should also be held financially responsible for the loss and damages caused. These types of auto accidents not ony cause loss and damages, but also grief and emotional distress to the families of the deceased.