(Orange, CA) A 79-year-old man, identified as Oscar Garcia Soto of Santa Ana, lost his life in a La Veta Avenue collision Sunday evening. Police arrested a 26-year-old driver on suspicion of DUI in connection with the fatal crash.
On Sunday, September 21, just before 8:00 p.m., the La Veta Avenue collision occurred near Devon Road, according to the Orange Police Department. Authorities reported that Bryan Reyes, 26, of Santa Ana, drove eastbound on La Veta Avenue. At some point, his vehicle struck Soto, who walked south across the street outside a marked crosswalk.
Paramedics rushed to the scene but sadly confirmed that Soto had died from his injuries. Police arrested Reyes shortly afterward, booking him on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. The Orange County Sheriff’s Coroner confirmed Soto’s identity, while investigators continue to review evidence to determine the full circumstances surrounding the La Veta Avenue collision.
The consequences of impaired driving can go far beyond fines or license suspension. Knowing what is a felony DUI is essential to understanding how quickly a DUI can escalate.
Legal Advice on the La Veta Avenue Collision
Collisions involving suspected impaired driving are taken very seriously under California law. This case highlights both criminal charges for the driver and civil rights for Soto’s family.
One central statute is California Vehicle Code 23152, which prohibits driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If evidence confirms impairment, Reyes could face felony charges. Since the crash resulted in a death, California Vehicle Code 23153 may also apply, as it elevates DUI cases causing injury or death to more severe penalties.
Because Soto tragically died, prosecutors charged Reyes with gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. This is a separate criminal offense under California Penal Code 191.5(a), carrying significant prison time if convicted.
On the civil side, California Vehicle Code 21954 states that pedestrians crossing outside of a crosswalk must yield to vehicles. However, the law also requires drivers to exercise due care to avoid collisions. Even though Soto was not in a crosswalk, the driver may still be held liable because impairment severely undermines safe driving.
Finally, Soto’s family may pursue a wrongful death lawsuit under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. Such a claim allows recovery for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and emotional damages.
What The Family of Oscar Garcia Soto Can Do
For the family of Oscar Garcia Soto, this loss is devastating. Speaking with a wrongful death attorney is an important step. A lawyer can secure police and coroner’s reports, monitor the criminal case against Reyes, and build a civil claim for compensation.
A wrongful death action not only helps with financial stability but also holds the at-fault driver accountable. By acting promptly, Soto’s family can preserve critical evidence and ensure their legal rights are protected following the La Veta Avenue collision.
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. </span>If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
