Bakersfield, CA (July 4, 2024) – On Independence Day, tragedy struck when Chad Anthony Jacques, 48, was struck and killed by an alleged drunk driver at the intersection of 24th and Oak Streets.
Accident Details and Investigation: The incident occurred in the late evening. Jacques was standing in the center divider when a vehicle driven by William Largent, 33, traveling north on Oak Street, attempted to turn east onto 24th Street. The vehicle ran over the center divider, striking Jacques, and then collided with four other vehicles on westbound 24th Street. Jacques succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Largent was arrested on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and DUI causing injury. He was due in court on Monday but failed to appear.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several legal questions need to be addressed to determine liability. The fact that Largent was allegedly driving under the influence significantly impacts the case. DUI is a severe offense that demonstrates a reckless disregard for the safety of others, possibly implication both criminal and civil litigations. The prosecution will need to provide evidence of Largent’s intoxication at the time of the crash. This can include breathalyzer results, blood tests, and field sobriety test reports. Evaluating Largent’s driving behavior before the crash is also crucial. Witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction reports can help establish the exact sequence of events. In addition to criminal charges, Jacques’s family may pursue a civil wrongful death claim against Largent. This claim could seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related damages.
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Chad Anthony Jacques during this difficult time.
Source: KGET