Angelica Gonzalez, 30, was killed in a Gardena car crash after the vehicle she was driving was struck by a 19-year-old man, who officials say, was driving under the influence. According to a news report in the Daily Breeze, Isaiah Lono was charged with murder after he was arrested on suspicion of fatally crashing into Gonzalez’s vehicle.
Suspect Faces Several Charges
Lono was suspected of stealing a 2018 Dodge Ram pickup truck outside an auto shop when he sped and crashed into several other vehicles. Officials said he ran through a red light before crashing into the victim who was driving near Redondo Beach Boulevard and Vermont Avenue.
In addition to the murder charge, Lono has also been charged with fleeing from the scene of a fatal collision, grand theft and three misdemeanor counts of hit-and-run driving resulting in property damage. He was also charged with one count of driving on a suspended or revoked license. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 18 years to life in prison.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of Angelica Gonzalez for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that Lono violated a number of state laws including driving under the influence, running a red light, leaving the scene of an accident and driving with a suspended or revoked license. According to California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a): “It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.” California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a) requires motorists to stop and remain at the scene of an injury or fatal crash until officials arrive.
In such cases where recklessness and wrongdoing are involved, families of deceased victims may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault parties seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love, care and companionship. An experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer will also be able to advise victims about how their own auto insurance policy might apply in a case where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.
Source: https://www.dailybreeze.com/2020/09/02/hawthorne-man-accused-of-killing-woman-with-stolen-pickup-truck-faces-murder-charge/