Police yesterday arrested 19-year-old Beau Richard Cook, six days after he struck and killed a pedestrian in Santa Ana, the Orange County Register reported. The fatal accident occurred last Wednesday, just before 11:30 p.m. According to news reports, Cook was speeding southbound on Harbor Boulevard in a 2010 Scion when he may have run a red light at Warner Avenue. He lost control of the car, struck a curb and knocked over a fire hydrant. Eloise Aguilar of Santa Ana, who was walking home from work, was struck by Cook's Scion and was killed instantly. Cook was taken to the hospital with injuries to his pelvis and left leg. He was arrested Tuesday shortly after being released from the hospital. He is facing felony charges of vehicular manslaughter along with an enhancement for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Cause of the Fatal Pedestrian Accident
If news reports in the OC Register are accurate, the driver of the Scion is likely responsible for the September 1st accident by driving under the influence of alcohol. However, the cause of the accident remains under investigation.
Pedestrian Accidents and Wrongful Death Liability
In addition to criminal charges for his actions, the driver of the Scion may also be held civilly responsible and financially accountable for the death he caused in this pedestrian accident. In situations such as this fatal Santa Ana pedestrian accident, where a suspected drunk driver is likely at fault for causing someone else's death, the family members of the victim would be well-advised to talk to a knowledgeable wrongful death attorney. A lawyer who has successfully represented victims of alcohol-related pedestrian accidents can advise the victims' family of legal rights, and any potential unique issues that may be relevant to a wrongful death claim. Talking to an attorney soon after an accident is always recommended to preserve evidence while it is still fresh and before witness recollections are forgotten.
Sources: Orange County Register
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