Convicted Felon Booked Into Banning After Fatal Crash in Hemet

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA -- A convicted felon was arrested and booked into the Smith Correctional Facility in Banning on Wednesday after she allegedly slammed into a car near an intersection in Hemet, killing one occupant and severely injuring another, according to Hemet police.

Faalele Rosemarie Patea, 25, of Moreno Valley was arrested and booked into Smith Correctional Facility in Banning Wednesday on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter, driving under the influence resulting in great bodily injury and parole violations.

According to Hemet police Sgt. Dan Reinbolt, about 9 p.m. on Wednesday May 1, a Honda Civic was slowing for a red traffic signal on Florida Avenue at Warren Road when the suspect approached from behind, allegedly traveling 100 mph in her Volkswagen Jetta.

Reinbolt alleged that the ex-con never slowed down, rear-ending the Honda and pushing it into another car.

The two men in the Honda, neither of whom were identified, suffered significant injuries, and both were taken to an Inland Empire trauma center, where one died, according to the sergeant. The other victim remains in critical condition, he said.

Neither Patea, nor the parties in the third vehicle were not hurt.

According to court records, the suspect has prior convictions for domestic violence and assault resulting in great bodily injury.

City News Service contributed to this report.