(Long Beach, CA) A Long Beach Boulevard collision killed Jasmine Martinez, 39, after a hit-and-run driver struck her in a crosswalk Friday afternoon.
On Friday, September 12, at about 12:16 p.m., the Long Beach Boulevard collision occurred. According to the Long Beach Police Department, it happened near Long Beach Boulevard and 68th Street.
Investigators learned Jasmine Martinez was walking in a crosswalk on 68th Street. All of a sudden, a southbound 2018 Chevrolet Camaro in the far-right lane struck her. The driver did not stop and continued southbound. Upon arriving, paramedics with the Long Beach Fire Department transported Martinez to a hospital. Despite arriving at the hospital, doctors later pronounced Martinez dead.
Authorities identified the alleged driver as Eric Dewayne Moody. Officers located him about 40 minutes after the crash and took him into custody. He was booked at the Long Beach City Jail on $50,000 bail. Detectives are still investigating whether alcohol, drugs, or speed contributed to the Long Beach Boulevard collision.
Hit and runs are a serious and delicate situation. The state of California takes these cases very seriously. It’s important for all drivers to know what to do in a hit-and-run.
Legal Opinion on the Long Beach Boulevard Collision
The Long Beach Boulevard collision that killed Jasmine Martinez involves both criminal and civil consequences under California law. Because the driver fled after striking a pedestrian in a crosswalk, multiple statutes apply. The most serious law at issue is California Vehicle Code 20001, which makes it a felony to leave the scene of a crash that causes injury or death. The driver’s decision to keep going after hitting Martinez violated this duty.
Since Martinez was crossing at a marked crosswalk, California Vehicle Code 21950 is also important. It requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks. Failure to stop before hitting Martinez directly violated this statute. If impairment is later confirmed, California Vehicle Code 23152 (driving under the influence) and California Vehicle Code 23153 (DUI causing injury or death) may also apply. Similarly, if speed played a role, California Vehicle Code 22350, the Basic Speed Law, would be relevant.
Because Martinez died, her family may file a wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. This allows them to recover damages for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the profound emotional toll of losing her so suddenly.
What the Family of Jasmine Martinez Can Do
The family should consult a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can review the police report, monitor the criminal case against Moody, and pursue civil claims on the family’s behalf. Civil action can secure financial support for funeral costs, medical bills, and compensation for the family’s grief and loss of companionship. Even though the driver faces criminal charges, the wrongful death claim ensures the family’s rights are protected.
By acting quickly after the Long Beach Boulevard collision, the family can preserve evidence, hold the driver accountable, and seek justice for Jasmine Martinez’s untimely death.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is a difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
