Temecula, CA (September 14, 2024) – On the evening of Saturday, September 14, 2024, Nancy Arzate, 33, of Perris, was tragically struck and killed on Interstate 15 in Temecula.
Accident Details: The fatal incident occurred after Arzate had been involved in a solo-vehicle crash with her Toyota Camry on the freeway’s right shoulder. As Arzate stood outside her car, a suspected DUI driver collided with her and her vehicle. Arzate was killed.
The suspected driver, 26-year-old Mason Michael Joachim of Carlsbad, drove a Ford Edge at approximately 70 mph. A vehicle swerved ahead of him, and though Joachim had missed hitting it, he struck Arzate and her Camry. Instead of staying at the scene, Joachim allegedly fled on foot. He was later found by authorities and briefly hospitalized for minor injuries.
Joachim was subsequently booked for multiple felonies, including suspicion of hit-and-run causing death, murder, DUI causing great bodily injury, and an alcohol blood concentration over the legal limit that led to injury. Jail records show that Joachim was driving on a suspended license. He is currently being held on $1 million bail.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. First and foremost is the suspected DUI, which often carries both criminal and civil consequences. Under California law, a driver who causes a fatal accident while intoxicated may face severe criminal charges. Joachim’s decision to flee the scene adds further legal complications.
From a civil standpoint, the Arzate family may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. California’s wrongful death laws allow surviving family members to seek compensation for the emotional and financial loss of a loved one. This case could involve claims for funeral expenses, loss of future income, and loss of companionship, among other damages.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Nancy Arzate during this challenging time.
Source: Patch