Sheriff’s officials Wednesday confirmed the arrest of a 17-year-old on suspicion of driving under the influence and vehicular manslaughter in a fatal crash that left two dead Friday.
A statement issued by the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department asked members of the public to share any information they might have about the crash with investigators who have yet to recommend charges to the L.A. County District Attorney’s Office.
The LASD’s director of communications confirmed Thursday afternoon that the teen suspect is no longer in custody as the investigation continues.
The Sheriff’s Department statement said the Santa Clarita Valley station was “deeply saddened over the tragic double fatal traffic collision that occurred late Friday evening,” in a news release issued at 9:30 p.m. Wednesday.
“Due to the severity of the crash and the fatalities involved, Traffic Services Detail investigators responded to the scene the night of the incident and are in charge of the investigation,” according to the LASD email.
The juvenile driver believed to be responsible was booked on suspicion of felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter. The department said its decision not to release his name was in accordance with California law.
An SCV official said on background that the Traffic Services Detail, which is considered a part of the Major Crimes Bureau, can be assigned to investigations that are considered “high profile,” or involve multiple fatalities, particularly if the department anticipates the investigation to take more time.
“This violent incident led to the tragic loss of a beloved husband and wife, who were valued members of the community, as well as serious injuries to their adult daughter,” according to the LASD statement. “In response, the community has come together to support the family during this unimaginably difficult time.”
The preliminary investigation indicated the driver might have been under the influence of alcohol, according to the LASD statement. A video obtained by The Signal shows the teen submitting to what appears to be a Breathalyzer test for blood-alcohol levels.
The statement indicated their investigation led to the driver’s “immediate detention.”
“The Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station is committed to a thorough and transparent investigation,” according to the statement. “All gathered evidence will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for formal filing consideration. We are working diligently to ensure that justice is served for the family and that all legal protocols are strictly followed to maintain the integrity of the prosecution.”
The L.A. County DA’s Office confirmed as of Wednesday afternoon that no case has been submitted for its consideration.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has any information about the incident can contact the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station Traffic Office at 661-260-4000, Anyone who prefers to provide information anonymously, can call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477), or use a smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP or “P3 Mobile” for the hearing impaired on Google play or the App Store, or by using the website lacrimestoppers.org.
