Pomona, CA (October 4, 2024) – On Friday evening, October 4, 2024, two people lost their lives in a tragic wrong-way crash on the I-10 Freeway near Kellogg Drive in Pomona.
Accident Details: The fatal collision occurred around 5:45 p.m. when the suspects in a BMW X6, fleeing from officers, crashed after entering the freeway in the wrong direction, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The suspects lost control of the vehicle and slammed into a dirt berm. The force of the crash ejected two occupants, 34-year-old Joey Gomez and 38-year-old Jose Caudillo, from the vehicle. The car then rolled multiple times and landed on top of them. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver, 30-year-old Erick Daniel Bolanos of Montclair, tried to flee but was apprehended at the scene. Another passenger, a 45-year-old man whose identity has not been released, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Investigation: At this time, it remains unclear why the police were pursuing the suspects or what charges Bolanos might face as the investigation continues.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this tragic accident raises several legal issues, particularly around negligence and liability. Fleeing from law enforcement is inherently negligent, as it endangers not only the occupants of the fleeing vehicle but also everyone else on the road. When Erick Daniel Bolanos chose to evade police, especially by driving the wrong way on a freeway, he placed countless lives in jeopardy.
Wrongful Death Claims: The families of Joey Gomez and Jose Caudillo may have grounds to file wrongful death claims against Bolanos. The families could recover damages for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and emotional distress through these claims.
Comparative Negligence: Gomez and Caudillo were not wearing seatbelts. This factor, and possibly their role in the police pursuit, might impact the compensation their families can recover. California follows a pure comparative negligence system. Even if Gomez and Caudillo bear partial responsibility for their involvement, their families can still pursue compensation. However, their recovery may be reduced according to the percentage of negligence attributed to them.
Personal Injury Claim: The 45-year-old passenger who was injured in the crash may have grounds for a personal injury claim against Bolanos. This individual could pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
I extend my deepest condolences to the families of Joey Gomez and Jose Caudillo during this difficult time. My thoughts are with those affected by this incident. I wish the injured individual a fast recovery.
Source: CBS News