Driver Roberto Maldonado is facing charges of gross vehicular manslaughter after his brakes failed and he slammed into a veteran LA police officer’s cruiser, killing him.
The California Highway Patrol spent nearly a year investigating the accident that took Officer Nicholas Choung Lee’s life. Their investigation led to the Friday arrest of Maldonado, who was out of jail on a $50,000 bail by Saturday.
Charges Filed Against Dump Truck Driver for Neglecting to Maintain Vehicle
Authorities have concluded that the accident occurred when the dump truck’s brakes failed, causing Maldonado to lose control of the vehicle and slam into the police car. The prosecution claims that Maldonado is at fault because he did not properly maintain the dump truck.
Maldonado, who owns the dump truck company, could be facing up to six years in prison if he is convicted.
Sources
LA Times
Los Angeles Daily News