San Luis Obispo, CA (July 27, 2024) – On Saturday morning, a tragic vehicle collision claimed the life of 63-year-old Stephen James Kritz, a resident of San Luis Obispo
Accident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), David Downs, 62, of Morro Bay, was traveling eastbound on Tank Farm Road when he veered into the westbound lane, crashing into Kritz’s vehicle. Kritz was pronounced dead at the scene, while Downs, who sustained major injuries, was transported to a local hospital.
Downs has been arrested and faces multiple charges, including murder, gross vehicular manslaughter, driving under the influence of a drug, and causing injury or death.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this case warrants further examination to ascertain potential liability. Given that David Downs was arrested on suspicion of DUI, his impairment at the time of the accident is a central issue. The investigation will likely focus on the evidence supporting this claim, including any blood alcohol or drug tests conducted. If Downs was indeed under the influence, this could significantly impact his liability for the crash.
In addition to the criminal charges Downs faces, the family of Stephen James Kritz may pursue a wrongful death claim against him. In such cases, the family would seek damages for the loss of their loved one, which could include compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional distress. To succeed, they would need to demonstrate that Downs’s actions were the direct cause of Kritz’s death and that his negligence or impairment played a significant role in the accident.
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Stephen James Kritz during this difficult time.
Source: KSBY