PLACER COUNTY, CA (May 19, 2022) – Todd Leopold, Placer County’s executive officer, confessed on May 13 that he was the one responsible for the March 19 crash that killed Anthony Williams as reported by SFGate.
The accident occurred in Rocklin on Lonetree Boulevard and Adams Drive near the Blue Oaks Town Center Mall. Anthony Williams was walking down the road when he was struck by Todd Leopold, who remained on the scene and was cooperating with investigators.
In a press release, Leopold said, “I am heartbroken for the loss of this young man and extend my sincere condolences to Mr. Williams’ family, friends, and all of those impacted by this tragic accident.”
However, friends and family of Anthony Williams were frustrated and critical of the police’s investigation in the weeks following the accident. In the two months following the tragic incident, investigators failed to identify Leopold as the one who struck and killed Williams.
While many suspected during that time that Leopold was responsible for the death, Rocklin police have yet to publicly identify Leopold as the driver who killed Williams.
The police have determined that Leopold was not at fault at the time of the accident.
The Placer County District Attorney’s office is now conducting its own investigation of the crash.
Liability In Placer County Pedestrian Accidents
Thousands of pedestrians are killed or seriously injured every year in pedestrian accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “An estimated 137,000 pedestrians were treated in emergency departments for nonfatal crash-related injuries in 2017. Per trip, pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to be killed in a car crash.” There are a number of factors that could lead to a pedestrian collision including:
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Driver distraction
- Inclement weather
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians. The family of any victim that died in a pedestrian collision may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Placer County Pedestrian Accident
We at West Coast Trial Lawyers extend our deepest condolences to the family of Anthony Williams. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to police. There needs to be some accountability for what happened.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a car accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need assistance after an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 395-7234.