Los Angeles: On Sunday, June 15, 2003, at about 7:25 p.m., a fatal traffic collision occurred at the intersection of Central Avenue and 43rd Place. 23 year-old Carlos Aquino, a resident of Los Angeles, was driving his 1987 Nissan 200 SX northbound on Central Avenue at 43^rd Place, when he struck the rear of 37 year-old Eusebio Alvares Ramirez, also a resident of Los Angeles.

The impact between Aquino and Ramirez’ vehicle caused Aquino’s right front passenger, 28 year-old Francisco Hernandez to collide with the windshield resulting in major head trauma. Hernandez was not wearing a seatbelt and died at scene. Ramirez’ wife and two small children, ages ten and six, were passengers in the van at the time of the collision. Mrs. Ramirez was taken to a local hospital where she was treated for minor injuries. The children were not injured. At the same time of this collision, a third vehicle, a 1992 Nissan pick-up truck, which was being driven southbound on Central Avenue by 27 year-old Rocio Escobar, collided with Ramirez’ vehicle. None of the three passengers in the pick-up truck were injured.

Aquino, who was believed to be under the influence of alcohol, sustained minor injuries and was transported to Los Angeles County USC Medical Center where he was treated and booked at the Jail Ward for Vehicular Manslaughter with Gross Negligence.

This investigation is on-going and is being conducted by Central Traffic Division Detectives. For further information contact Detective Tia Morris at 213-485-3111.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.