A a 43-year-old Long Beach woman was arrested today after she ran into several bicyclists in Huntington Beach, killing one man and hospitalizing two others.
The driver was arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run, gross vehicular manslaughter and possession of narcotics about a half-mile away after she stopped her car, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.
Police officers responded to Pacific Coast Highway, between Beach Boulevard and Newland Street, just past 6:45 a.m. this morning.
The police officers found the Mercedes-Benz and the three bicyclists, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.
The bicyclists were riding in the bike lane when they were struck.
The police investigators are not yet clear as to what may have led up to the crash.
Police were investigating whether speed, distracted driving, drugs or alcohol may have factored into the crash.
The police did not identify the DUI driver. However you can read their arrest log here.
Based on the reported charges, the suspect may face the following penalties under California law:
- Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated (Penal Code § 191.5(a))
- Felony offense
- 4 to 10 years in state prison
- Up to 15 years if there are prior DUI convictions or aggravating factors
- Felony Hit-and-Run Resulting in Death or Injury (Vehicle Code § 20001(b)(2))
- Felony offense
- 2 to 4 years in state prison
- Additional fines up to $10,000
- Possession of Narcotics (Health & Safety Code § 11350 or § 11377)
- Misdemeanor or felony depending on substance and prior record
- Up to 1 year in county jail for simple possession
- Diversion programs may be available if eligible
- Driving Under the Influence (Vehicle Code § 23152 or § 23153)
- Misdemeanor or felony depending on injury and prior convictions
- License suspension, fines, DUI education, and possible jail time
- Felony DUI with injury can result in 16 months to 4 years in state prison
- Combined Charges
- If prosecuted together, sentencing could include consecutive terms
- Probation may be denied due to the fatality and multiple injuries
Final penalties will depend on the outcome of the investigation, toxicology results, and court proceedings.