Sela Mataele-Rosalez Killed in DUI Crash on W Leland Road in Pittsburg
Sela Mataele-Rosalez ID’d as 1 of 2 Killed in Pittsburg Car Crash on West Leland Road near John Henry Johnson Parkway
Pittsburg, California (April 14, 2021) – Sela Mataele-Rosalez, 7, was among two people who were killed Monday evening in an alleged DUI crash that also left seven others injured, authorities said.
The deadly two-car accident occurred at about 6:05 p.m. Monday, April 12, in the 800 block of West Leland Road, just east of John Henry Johnson Parkway.
According to the authorities, a Chevrolet Camaro was allegedly speeding on West Leland Road when it crashed into the back of a Toyota Corolla.
After the impact, the driver of the Corolla lost control and struck a tree.
Deadly 2-Vehicle Crash on W. Leland in Pittsburg
Mataele-Rosalez and two other juvenile passengers in the back seat of the Corolla, ages 4 and 1, were ejected from the car.
The Corolla driver was pronounced dead at the scene while the children were taken to nearby hospitals in critical condition. Despite efforts by medical personnel, Mataele-Rosalez later succumbed to her injuries.
A third passenger in the Corolla, a woman, was also taken to the hospital, where he was listed in serious but stable condition.
Three passengers in the Camaro, including a 10-year-old, were not seriously injured, authorities said. The driver of the Camaro, Christian Vargas, 25, did not suffer any injuries.
Authorities later determined that Vargas was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident. He was ultimately arrested and booked into jail on suspicion of DUI.
Vargas is expected to face vehicular manslaughter charges.
Police closed a section of West Leland Road for several hours while the investigation took place. The names of both deceased victims and the injured parties have not been disclosed.
A GoFundMe account has been established to help cover funeral costs for both victims.
Further details about the accident were not immediately available.
The crash remains under investigation.
Tips on What to do after a Car Accident in California
- Always stop and remain at the scene.
- Check if you or your passengers have been injured. In case someone is hurt, call emergency services or ask someone else to help.
- Get to safety – If your car is drivable, move it to a safe area. If it’s not, turn your hazard lights on and set up flares.
- Call 911 to report the accident.
- Never discuss or admit fault. Instead, wait for a police officer and insurance companies representatives to figure out the fault.
- Document the accident and exchange information with other drivers.
If you have lost someone you love in a car accident and need legal help, call our law office at Click to call : 866-803-6502 and talk to an accident attorney.
