SANTA ANA, Calif. – A fatal incident involving a repeat DUI offender has resulted in murder charges after the suspect struck and killed a pedestrian in Orange, California. 31-year-old Jonathan Lopez, who has a history of DUI convictions, is now facing grave legal consequences after the events of March 12, 2024.
Lopez is charged with one count of murder, felony hit-and-run causing permanent injury or death, evading arrest with reckless driving, DUI with three previous offenses, and driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher. Additionally, he has been charged with a misdemeanor for operating a vehicle on a suspended license. If found guilty on all counts, Lopez could be sentenced to 18 years to life in California state prison.
The identity of the victim, who succumbed to injuries sustained in the collision, has not been disclosed.
According to the prosecution, the events unfolded on Tustin Avenue in the city of Orange around 11:15 AM, when Lopez, driving while intoxicated, fatally struck the pedestrian. Fleeing the scene, he was swiftly located by law enforcement, leading to a brief high-speed chase before his subsequent arrest. During the pursuit, Lopez ignored a red signal and bypassed three stop signs.
Source: New Santa Ana