California – According to authorities, a 27-year-old male has been charged with murder after it was alleged that he killed a mother and her kid in a head-on accident caused by alcohol and injured multiple others.
According to a press statement issued by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Diego Santoscruz struck the Argueta family on August 17 head-on while intoxicated, shortly after 1 p.m., in the area of Temple City that is home to the intersection of Gidley Street and Temple City Boulevard.
Both Sabrina, age 10 and Jennifer Argueta, age 10, who were riding in the car the suspect struck, perished. According to the authorities, Sabrina’s father sustained injuries while driving.
Santoscruz’s car contained a fourth passenger who also sustained injuries.
“Our community is devastated by the senseless loss of Jennifer Argueta and her daughter, Sabrina Argueta,” said District Attorney Gascón. “This tragedy serves as a stark and heartbreaking reminder of the severe consequences that come with driving under the influence. Our office is committed to ensuring that the individual responsible for this horrific incident is held fully accountable for their actions. Our Bureau of Victim Services remains ready to assist the victims and their families during this unimaginably difficult time.”
In addition to two counts of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, the 27-year-old is also accused of two counts of driving while intoxicated and causing injury.
The defendant’s bail should be set at a sum greater than $4 million, according to the prosecution. His court appearance is set for late September.
Santoscruz might spend the rest of his life in a state penitentiary if found guilty as accused.