North Hollywood, California (April 12, 2026) — Two pedestrians were killed, and three other people suffered minor injuries early Sunday morning in North Hollywood when an alleged drunk driver sped into them after they exited a parked car, according to authorities.
Officials identified the deceased as 35-year-old Nefi Lopez Gutierrez of El Monte and 50-year-old Azusena Gonzalez of North Hollywood. Lopez Gutierrez died at the scene, and Gonzalez died after being taken to a hospital.
The crash happened at about 2:25 a.m. on Colfax Avenue, north of Calvert Street.
Incident Details: According to the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Vidal Cruz Jr. was driving a gray Acura northbound on Colfax Avenue when he struck Lopez Gutierrez and Gonzalez after they had exited the driver’s side of a parked white Toyota Camry and were standing near the shoulder of the road. Police said Cruz also hit the Camry, which still had three occupants inside.
Authorities said the force of the collision threw the two pedestrians forward before the Acura continued northeast, entered a private driveway, and crashed into unoccupied parked vehicles and a house. Police said the three people who remained inside the Camry suffered minor injuries. Following his arrest, Cruz was booked on suspicion of two counts of murder. On April 14, he was formally charged with two counts of murder. Prosecutors stated that he has pleaded not guilty and could face a life sentence in state prison if convicted.
Investigation: In a crash like this, investigators will likely focus on speed, impairment, and the victims’ positions at the time of impact. In an alleged DUI case involving pedestrians who had just stepped out of a parked vehicle, crash reconstruction can be critical in showing how fast the Acura was traveling, how much time the driver had to react, and whether the collision was entirely avoidable.
Investigators may also review toxicology evidence, surveillance footage, witness statements, roadway conditions, and the damage to both vehicles and nearby property. Because the Acura also struck the parked Camry and then continued into additional vehicles and a house, the full path of travel will likely be a major part of the case.
Legal Considerations: Fatal pedestrian crashes involving allegations of DUI and unsafe speed often present strong grounds for civil claims. If the evidence confirms that Vidal Cruz Jr. was intoxicated and speeding when he struck Lopez Gutierrez and Gonzalez, those facts would likely become central in both the criminal case and any civil claims arising from the deaths and injuries.
Depending on the investigation’s findings, the families of Nefi and Azusena may have valid grounds to pursue wrongful death claims to recover funeral and burial expenses and compensation for the loss of financial support, love, and guidance. The injured occupants of the Camry may also have personal injury claims that can provide compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
My deepest condolences go out to the loved ones and family of Nefi Lopez Gutierrez and Azusena Gonzalez, and I wish healing to the injured survivors.
Source: MyNewsLA; Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office