Santa Monica, CA (October 17, 2024) – Sherese Allen, a 34-year-old woman believed to be homeless, tragically died after being run over by an SUV near the Santa Monica Pier late Thursday night.
Accident Details: Officers on patrol were alerted around 11:30 p.m. about a vehicle stuck in the sand near the 1400 block of the beach. Upon investigation, they discovered Allen unconscious and wedged beneath the car. Despite efforts from emergency responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene due to traumatic asphyxia.
The driver of the 2015 Infiniti SUV, identified as 21-year-old Yuyang Sun of Arcadia, was reportedly driving recklessly in circles at high speeds on the sand when he struck Allen. Sun remained at the scene and was later arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, and gross vehicular manslaughter. He is currently being held on $100,000 bail.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination to determine liability.
Driving Under the Influence: A DUI is a serious offense in California, and Yuyang Sun’s intoxication, if confirmed, likely played a direct role in his inability to operate his vehicle safely. Intoxicated drivers have impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and reduced motor skills, all of which drastically increase the risk of causing accidents.
Speeding: Second, speeding while driving in circles on the sand adds another layer of reckless behavior. Driving at high speeds, especially on a surface as unpredictable as sand, further demonstrates a lack of care for the safety of others. Speeding not only increases the likelihood of an accident but also magnifies the potential for severe injuries or fatalities, as tragically occurred here.
Presence on the Beach: Moreover, whether Sun was allowed to drive on the beach is a critical question. Beaches are typically not designated for vehicular use, and driving on the sand is likely prohibited for public safety reasons. If Sun was not permitted to drive on the beach, this would be an additional factor supporting claims of negligence and reckless disregard for the rules.
Wrongful Death Claim: If negligence is established on these grounds—DUI, speeding, and unauthorized driving on the beach—Sun could face serious legal consequences, including a wrongful death claim from Sherese Allen’s family.
My thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to Sherese Allen’s family and friends during this difficult time.
Source: Westside Current