LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA — A tragic crash in Long Beach turned deadly when a vehicle driven by a suspected intoxicated driver reportedly jumped a curb and struck several members of a family walking on a sidewalk, killing a 20-month-old girl and injuring others.
Authorities say the devastating incident unfolded late Monday morning, leaving a young child dead and multiple family members injured in what investigators say may have been a DUI-related crash.
What Police Say Happened
According to investigators, the crash occurred around 11:30 a.m. Monday when a 2013 Chevrolet Captiva was attempting to make a turn. Police say the vehicle suddenly reversed at high speed, jumped the curb, and struck three people who were standing or walking on the sidewalk.
Those hit included a 20-month-old girl, a 12-year-old girl, and a 45-year-old woman. Emergency responders rushed to the scene after the crash was reported. The toddler was transported to a hospital but later succumbed to her injuries.
Victim Identified as 20-Month-Old Myrah Hunter
Authorities and family members identified the young victim as Myrah Hunter, a 20-month-old child whose death has left relatives and the community in shock.
Despite efforts by medical personnel to save her life, the child died after being taken to the hospital following the collision. The loss has devastated the family, who were reportedly together at the time of the crash.
Mother Witnesses the Tragedy
The child’s mother, Meicole Johnson, said she witnessed the horrifying moment when the SUV suddenly jumped the curb and struck the group without warning.
According to her account, the vehicle crashed into the family so suddenly that they had little time to react. When she reached her daughter, the toddler was found lying on top of her injured aunt, who had also been struck during the crash.
The 45-year-old woman suffered broken ribs, while the 12-year-old girl sustained a broken leg in the collision. Family members also said the older child helped shield a 10-month-old baby from the oncoming vehicle during the terrifying incident.
Suspect Arrested at the Scene
Police arrested 55-year-old Lamont Ivan Russell of Long Beach at the scene shortly after the crash. Authorities say he was booked on suspicion of felony vehicular manslaughter, felony DUI, and misdemeanor battery in connection with the incident.
Officials confirmed that bail was set at $335,000 while the case moves forward through the legal system. Investigators continue to review the crash to determine the full sequence of events leading up to the deadly collision.
Community Shock After Deadly Crash
The heartbreaking incident has sparked widespread concern in the Long Beach community, particularly because the crash occurred on a sidewalk where pedestrians typically expect to be safe from traffic. Crashes involving suspected impaired drivers often carry severe criminal penalties and can have devastating consequences for families and communities.
Authorities are continuing their investigation while family members mourn the loss of the young child whose life was cut tragically short. If you have thoughts about road safety or impaired driving prevention, share your perspective and join the conversation at GordonRamsayClub.com.
Leave a Reply