California man accused of killing mother of three in DUI hit-and-run had suspended license
A California man accused of killing a mom of three in a DUI hit-and-run was driving with a suspended license from a earlier drunken-driving conviction when he allegedly struck her and fled.
Fernando Cruz Saldana, 26, pleaded not responsible Friday to homicide and different fees stemming from the Sept. 15 dying of Vanessa Wheyland close to Redwood Avenue and Carlsbad Boulevard, near Tamarack Seaside.
Wheyland, a mom of three, was strolling along with her household when she was struck simply earlier than 8 p.m., based on mates. She suffered main accidents and was rushed to an area hospital, the place she was pronounced useless.
Police say Saldana fled after the crash. His car was discovered a couple of mile away with assist from info supplied by group members, automated license plate readers and proof left on the scene.
Saldana appeared in court docket Friday and pleaded not responsible to homicide and a number of other different fees, NBC 7 reported.
The case took an much more severe flip due to Saldana’s earlier DUI conviction in San Diego in 2023, based on a prison grievance. His license was nonetheless suspended from that conviction when the lethal crash occurred.
Underneath California legislation, that prior conviction allowed prosecutors to cost Saldana with second-degree homicide below the “Watson Homicide” doctrine.
He additionally faces fees of leaving the scene of a collision leading to damage or dying, driving below the affect inflicting damage or dying and gross vehicular manslaughter whereas below the affect.
Saldana is being held with out bail following his arraignment.
Wheyland’s dying has left behind a husband and three daughters.
“Vanessa was a faithful spouse, an unbelievable mom, and a cherished good friend whose love and presence touched so many individuals,” a GoFundMe for her household learn.
“Her household was her total world, and this devastating loss has left everybody who beloved her heartbroken.”
A candlelight vigil was held Thursday at Tamarack Seaside, the place 1000’s confirmed as much as keep in mind Wheyland, Fox 5 reported.
The lethal crash has additionally fueled frustration amongst neighbors who instructed NBC 7 they’ve seen a number of crashes alongside the roadway, together with deadly crashes, with every loss devastating the group.
