Driver believed to be responsible for fatal car accident arrested

Police in California arrested a woman believed to be responsible for a fatal hit-and-run accident. The car accident left a beloved teacher and member of the community dead, and the driver’s quick getaway did not provide any closure for the family. The driver apparently went to great lengths to conceal her true identity from police.

In April 2016, a high school music teacher crossed the road at an intersection. Although he had the right of way, a black vehicle entered the intersection against a red light and struck the man before leaving him for dead. The teacher suffered catastrophic injuries that led to his death, which came a week after the wreck.

The driver responsible for the wreck attempted to avoid police capture by changing her physical appearance. She allegedly utilized contacts to change the color of her eyes, dyed her hair to the color pink and paid for a facial tattoo. Tips from the community helped lead police to the suspect despite her changed appearance. The woman led police on a short vehicle chase that ended in her arrest, although she first had to be taken to an area hospital to receive treatment for her injuries.

California law requires a driver involved in a car accident to stop and render any necessary aid, which this woman appeared to blatantly ignore. While it might be of some comfort for family members to know that the individual believed to be responsible for their loved one’s death will face criminal consequences for her actions, the loss of a loved one will still be emotionally and, likely, financially draining. The successful completion of a wrongful death claim can usually help mourning family members address the financial damages associated with a sudden death, including funeral expenses and any medical bills incurred during attempts at life-saving treatments.

Source: nbclosangeles.com, “Woman Arrested in Hit-and-Run Crash That Killed OC Teacher“, Jessica Perez, May 29, 2016