Van Nuys - On Wednesday, February 14, 2001, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Artem Avetisyan was driving a 1999 Mercedes Benz, SUV, westbound on Hamlin Street. Avetisyan failed to stop for a posted stop sign and collided with a 1999 Mercedes Benz, which was southbound on Coldwater Canyon Avenue. The impact between the two vehicles caused one vehicle to overturn and collide with the curb and a building. Anna Epoyan, an 18-year-old resident of Glendale, was seated in the right front passenger seat of Avetisyan's vehicle was ejected and subsequently died of her injuries at the scene.

Avetisyan was booked for felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter. Avetisyan sustained lacerations to his hands and was treated at the scene. The other driver suffered major injuries and was transported to a local hospital in stable condition.

This investigation is being conducted by Valley Traffic Detectives and is on going. For further information, please contact Detectives K. Girk and B. Crane at 818-756-8391.

This press release was prepared by Officer La Donna Cissell, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.