INDIO, CA (September 7, 2022) – Felony charges are expected today against 51-year-old Sheila Johnson suspected in a fatal hit-and-run crash in Desert Hot Springs that killed Paul Nava.
Sheila Johnson of Desert Hot Springs was arrested last week on suspicion of second degree murder, a hit and run with death and vehicular manslaughter, according to the Desert Hot Springs Police Department.
Police said that officers responded near Palm Drive and Buena Vista Avenue shortly after 8 p.m. on Aug. 24 to a report of a collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian.
A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle that was traveling southbound on Palm Drive when the man was crossing the roadway, according to police. The vehicle left the scene.
Upon arrival, officers attempted life-saving measures until CalFire and EMS crews arrived, police said. The man, identified as 58-year-old Paul Nava succumbed to fatal injuries on the scene.
Department detectives and the Major Accident Investigation Team identified Johnson as a suspect, police said. She was arrested in the 1300 block of South Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs.
Johnson was being held at the John J. Benoit Detention Center in Indio on $1 million bail.
Anyone with information on the collision was asked to call Sergeant Scott Hazen at 760-329-6411 ext. 372.
UPDATE September 7, 9:53 a.m.: Sheila Johnson has been formally charged with with a felony count of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, as well as sentence-enhancing allegations for fleeing the scene, being armed, causing great bodily harm and engaging in violent conduct. She was also charged with being an unlicensed operator.
[via City News Service]
Liability In Desert Hot Springs 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 Paul Nava’s Pedestrian Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Paul Nava. 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 (844) 966-0965.