Oakland, CA (August 19, 2024) – On Monday evening, August 19, 2024, a tragic accident in Oakland claimed the life of 17-year-old Mardenia Carrillo Lopez and left her mother, Maria Lopez Aguilar, injured.
Accident Details: The accident occurred around 6:30 p.m. near 72nd Avenue and International Boulevard when Mardenia Carrillo Lopez and her mother, Maria Lopez Aguilar, crossed the street in a crosswalk. A vehicle driven by Agusto Matias hit the pair. Mardenia was pronounced dead at the scene, while her mother sustained injuries to her hand and shoulder. Matias did not stop after the collision; instead, he crashed into a tree blocks away near 84th and International. He then fled the scene. Witnesses helped detain him until Alameda County sheriff’s deputies arrived, and he was later turned over to Oakland police. Matias has been arrested and booked on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter, hit-and-run, and DUI. Records indicate that he has previous DUI offenses.
This tragic incident also brings renewed attention to safety concerns on International Boulevard. Reducing traffic to one lane has led some drivers to use the bus-only lane, increasing the risk of accidents.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that in this case, several factors should be investigated to determine liability and ensure that justice is served for Mardenia and her family. Key areas of focus might include:
Driver’s Behavior: Investigators will likely delve into the circumstances leading up to the crash. Hit-and-run accidents can carry serious criminal and civil penalties, including prison time and monetary damages for driving negligently.
Roadway Conditions and Design: The changes to International Boulevard, which have reduced it to one lane, should also be scrutinized. Was the design change implemented with adequate consideration for pedestrian safety, and did it contribute to the crash? If roadway design or traffic management contributed to the crash, the city might be implicated and held responsible for failing to ensure that such changes did not endanger pedestrians.
Mardenia Carrillo Lopez’s family may consider pursuing a wrongful death claim against the driver to seek compensation for their loss. Additionally, Maria Lopez Aguilar may have grounds for a personal injury claim to cover her medical expenses, pain and suffering, and any long-term impact on her quality of life. Both claims would hold the responsible party accountable and provide some measure of justice for the family.
My sincerest condolences go to Mardenia Carrillo Lopez’s family and friends during this difficult time. I wish Maria Lopez Aguilar a fast recovery.
Source: KTVU