DANA POINT, CA (NOVEMBER 7, 2023): 43-year-old Evan Madison Owen has been arrested on suspicion of DUI and second-degree murder following a fatal collision in Dana Point last week.
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, the incident occurred at around 8:20 p.m. Sunday as a 1999 Plymouth and a 2019 BMW traveled southbound on Coast Highway, south of Palisades Drive. The BMW then struck the Plymouth under unclear circumstances.
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Paramedics arrived on the scene shortly thereafter, and discovered the male driver of the Plymouth with critical injuries. The victim was then rushed to the hospital, where he unfortunately succumbed to his injuries and died at the facility.
His identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
Owen, the driver of the BMW, was initially arrested on suspicion of driving while under the influence while causing injury. It was then revealed Owen had previous experience as a volunteer firefighter for the Los Angeles Fire Department, and his charges were elevated to second-degree murder.
A quote from the Los Angeles Police Department stated that “… a second-degree murder charge was later included due to Owen’s knowledge of the danger of impaired driving. Owen had trained experience as a volunteer firefighter in the county of Los Angeles.”
Despite arrests made, this incident remains under investigation by the LAPD. Authorities urge anyone with information pertinent to this case to contact the OCSD’s Traffic Bureau. Los Angeles authorities continue to look into the cause of this fatal DUI accident involving Evan Madison Owen.
Liability In Dana Point DUI Car Accidents
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Pursuant to Tennessee Vehicle Code 55-10-401, “It is unlawful for any person to drive or to be in physical control of any automobile or other motor driven vehicle on any of the public roads and highways of the state, or on any streets or alleys, or while on the premises of any shopping center, trailer park or any apartment house complex, or any other premises that is generally frequented by the public at large, while:
(1) Under the influence of any intoxicant, marijuana, narcotic drug, or drug producing stimulating effects on the central nervous system; or
(2) The alcohol concentration in the person’s blood or breath is eight-hundredths of one percent (.08 %) or more.”
- Delayed reaction times
- Loss of muscle control
- Impaired judgment
- Lowered alertness
The family of any victim that has been injured or killed in a collision with a drunk driver may have legal recourse through a bodily injury or 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 unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating Evan Madison Owen’s DUI Case
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the man killed in this collision. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about an accident that took place in Dana Point? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. Whether you just have legal questions or need more information about an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.