Martinez, CA (December 5, 2023) 31-year-old Elsy Zapien-Vasquez from Pittsburg was killed in a fiery collision on Highway 4 in Martinez, authorities said. Officer Darius Rackley, a motorcycle officer with the California Highway Patrol said he attempted to stop her for speeding. He never could have imagined how it would all play out when he decided to stop her.
Rackley said he clocked Zapien-Vasquez driving at a speed of 99 miles an hour on Highway 4. He immediately attempted to pull her over for speeding, but she refused to stop. Instead, Zapien-Vasquez continued speeding down Highway 4, leading Officer Rackley on a high-speed chase.
Have you or someone you care about been hurt in an accident? Reach out to us at 866-945-4286 anytime. Someone is always available to help! You can also use our contact us here: Accident News Now.
Officer Rackley said he watched, helpless, as Zapien-Vasquez rear-ended a large, green transport truck at a high speed. Her SUV caught on fire following the collision. At that moment, Officer Rackley admitted that he went from trying to arrest her to trying to save her life. He attempted to smash her side window from the vehicle and used a fire extinguisher that a good Samaritan of a witness had brought to help. He sprayed the fire, extinguishing the flames, but Elsy Zapien-Vasquez died from multiple blunt force injuries she sustained in the accident.
Pathologist, Dr. Ikechi Ogan said that Zapien-Vasquez sustained damage to her lungs, spleen, kidneys and had massive internal bleeding. He also reported that she suffered third-degree burns from the fire. They had also discovered that she had ingested methamphetamine, Dr. Ogan said.
The driver of the transport truck was evaluated by paramedics. Their condition was not released.
Fault In a Marinez DUI Collision
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 23152, “(a) It is unlawful for a person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage to drive a vehicle. (b) It is unlawful for a person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a vehicle.” Even small amounts of alcohol can substantially impair drivers in the following ways: lowered alertness, loss of muscle control, impaired judgment and delayed reaction time.
The family of any victim that has been injured or killed in a collision with a drunk driver may have legal recourse through a bodily injury or 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 unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
The Investigation Of A DUI Accident In Martinez
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Elsy Zapien-Vasquez during this time of loss. Anyone who may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about an accident that took place in Martinez? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. Whether you just have legal questions or need more information about an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (866)945-4286.
