A pedestrian was fatally injured after a DUI hit-and-run crash in Lake Elsinore on Thursday night, September 5, 2024.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the incident occurred at approximately 9:27 p.m. as a 42-year-old motorist, Mitzi R. was driving her 2018 Nissan Versa westbound on State Route 74, just west of Ardenwood Way.
The victim, who was pushing a shopping cart on the highway’s shoulder, was struck from behind after the driver made an “unsafe turning movement.”
First responders arrived on the scene and pronounced the man, who remains unidentified, dead. His identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
The driver fled the scene but was later found at a residence in Lake Elsinore with assistance from the sheriff’s department. She was arrested and booked into the Southwest Detention Center on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and hit-and-run, causing death. She posted a $75,000 bail bond and was released from custody on Friday.
Formal charges have not yet been filed, and the CHP Temecula Area office is continuing its investigation.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.