Two Women Killed in Hemet DUI Crash

Dane Adkins-Radford and Emily Hale, both 21, were killed in a Hemet car accident, which officials say, was caused by a DUI driver. According to a KTLA news report, the fatal crash occurred early morning on Dec. 12 near Florida Avenue and Kirby Street. Hemet police say a Honda Fit hatchback with three people inside was stopped at a red light when a BMW 535i sedan rear-ended it without braking. Video from the crash site showed the Honda with the back crushed into the backseats.

Tragic Deaths and Injuries

Officials said Adkins-Radford died at the scene while Hale was pronounced dead at an area hospital Officials did not say which one of the women was driving at the time. The other passenger in the Honda also suffered injuries and was hospitalized. The BMW’s driver, identified as Jesus Rios, 33, did not sustain any injuries. Police said Rios attempted to leave the scene, but a witness was able to prevent his escape. Officers later arrested him on suspicion of DUI, vehicular homicide and attempted hit-and-run. Rios remains in jail on a $1 million bail.

Family members of the victims have set up a GoFundMe page for funeral expenses for Adkins-Radford and Hale as well as for medical expenses for the surviving victim, who according to the page “broke several bones in her right arm and right leg and has fractures in her hip and left leg.”

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the hurting families and friends of Adkins-Radford and Hale. We also wish the injured victim the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep everyone who has been affected in your thoughts and prayers.

Protecting Victims’ Rights

Based on this news report, it appears that the BMW’s driver was under the influence when he rear-ended the Honda, which was carrying the three victims. It is illegal under California law to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. We are relieved that in this case, a witness was able to stop the driver from fleeing the scene of the crash.

In such cases where negligence or wrongdoing is a factor, injured victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, permanent injuries, disabilities and pain and suffering. An experienced Riverside car accident lawyer who represents DUI victims and their families will be able to help those affected secure maximum compensation for their losses and hold the at-fault parties accountable.

Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/2-victims-of-suspected-dui-crash-in-hemet-idd-as-21-year-old-women/