The driver’s departure from the scene of the accident at the time of the death of pedestrian Devan Elayda constitutes a felony involving death or serious injury.
the driver of that car Kill Hollister Residents Devan Nicole Elayda accepted an October 4 plea deal on November 27, 2021 to a felony Leave the scene of an accident involving death or serious injury. The driver is a minor.
Elayda, 23, is a senior in criminology studies at Fresno State University. She owns her own clothing line and is a rising star on TikTok. Carolyn Coon, dean of students in the criminology department, wrote in a letter to students: “Our hearts go out to Devon’s family and friends and our Fresno State community as they continue to Feeling the loss from this tragic accident.”
The 16-year-old male, who was driving without a license, fled the scene after hitting Elayda, who was walking near the median, the California Highway Patrol said. After accepting a plea deal, he was sentenced to 60 days in juvenile detention, suspended for a year.
A statement from the family and provided to BenitoLink through their lawyer said in part: “It’s been 1 year since the accident and we are still devastated and miss our lovely, amazing Devan who was full of life, love and laughter.”
It continued, “As the holidays approach, we want to stress to young people how dangerous parking on the highway is under all circumstances, especially at night, and implore them to rely on professional services, taxis, Ubers/Lyfts or Parents get a ride. If Devan had taken an Uber home, she would be with us right now. If Devan’s death helped save others, we know she would want it.”
According to the CHP report, Elayda was traveling as a passenger on State Highway 180 when she got into an altercation with the driver. Elayda got out of the vehicle after the vehicle was parked in the asphalt median, police said.
“For unknown reasons, she continued heading south until she was in the middle of Lane 1, in the through lane of the Lexus,” the report said, adding that she was wearing dark clothing and was difficult to spot.It was also reported that the driver It may be known that Elayda was seriously injured in the collision and required immediate medical attention.
Police determined the minor’s car was involved based on evidence including blood stains, Elayda’s shoes and damage to the vehicle.
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