Los Angeles, CA (November 20, 2023) – A 63 year old woman and her adult son, Elio Bautista, both passed away on Sunday, November 19th, after being hit in a suspected DUI crash on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, California. According to news source, MyNewsLA, the accident took place around 5:20 p.m. in the Westlake neighborhood of LA.
The Los Angeles Police Department reported that the two victims were standing at the corner of the intersection in question when a drunk driver travelling east at high speed lost control of his 2008 Cadillac CTS and went off the road, striking both pedestrians. The vehicle also damaged a light pole on the southeast corner of the intersection. The driver, later identified as 31 year old Isaiah Villegas, fled the scene on foot but was located a short time later by police.
Paramedics quickly responded to the scene where both pedestrians had sustained severe injuries. Tragically the man, identified as 33 year old Elio Bautista Jr. was pronounced dead at the scene. His mother, who has not been named, died at the hospital a short time later.
Police arrested Villegas on charges of vehicular manslaughter and DUI. They are still investigating the death of Elio Bautista Jr.
Liability In Los Angeles Pedestrian Accidents
Thousands of pedestrians are killed or seriously injured every year in pedestrian accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “An estimated 137,000 pedestrians were treated in emergency departments for nonfatal crash-related injuries in 2017. Per trip, pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to be killed in a car crash.” There are a number of factors that could lead to a pedestrian collision including:
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Driver distraction
- Inclement weather
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians. The family of any victim that died in a pedestrian collision may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating The Death of Elio Bautista and His Mother
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the families of those killed in this crash. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to police. There needs to be some accountability for what happened.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a Los Angeles car accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need assistance after an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.
