Newport Beach, CA (May 25, 2024) – Tragedy struck over the weekend on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, resulting in the death of a 14-year-old girl due to a crash involving a suspected DUI driver.
Incident Overview: The fatal collision occurred around 6:47 p.m. Saturday near the intersection of Balboa Boulevard and Palm Street, just a short distance from the popular Balboa Fun Zone. The victim, identified as Rosenda Elizabeth Smiley from Rialto, was struck by a car and, despite prompt response from emergency crews, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, identified as 30-year-old Joseph Alcazar of Fontana, was arrested following the incident. Alcazar faces charges including homicide by traffic fatality and cruelty to a child. Police suspect that alcohol played a role in the crash, although specific details regarding the level of impairment or the circumstances leading up to the incident have not been fully disclosed.
Legal Implications: The ongoing investigation will focus on determining the exact cause of the crash and the level of the driver’s impairment. The charges of homicide by traffic fatality and cruelty suggest significant legal repercussions for Alcazar. If convicted, these charges can lead to severe penalties. However, the family of the victim also has the option of pursuing a wrongful death claim for their loss as well. This type of claim provides compensation for the family’s funeral costs, emotional distress, and more.
My thoughts are with the Smiley family during this profoundly difficult time. I hope that they find justice after this awful incident.
Source: KTLA