Fatal Collision Results In Multiple Charges For Man, Police Say

SANTA CLARA, CA -- A fatal traffic collision occurring near the intersection of Stevens Creek Boulevard and Maplewood Avenue this week has resulted in the arrest of a man on charges of vehicle manslaughter, auto theft, possession of pepper spray, driving on a suspended license as well as a violation on his post-release community supervision requirement.

Edgardo Sanchez, 34, who sustained non life-threatening injuries, was driving the wrong direction in a white colored Honda Accord, with a female seated in the front passenger seat. As Sanchez was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of Stevens Creek Boulevard, the Honda struck a silver-colored Toyota Prius traveling in the westbound lanes.

The white Honda then struck a silver-colored Honda head-on, which was also traveling in the westbound lanes of Stevens Creek Boulevard.

Sanchez's front seat passenger, a 24-year-old Santa Clara resident, received life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where she later died.

The driver of the Prius was a 55-year-old female resident of San Jose, who was not injured in the collision. The 38-year-old driver of the silver-colored Honda from San Jose received minor injuries and was also transported to a local hospital.

The investigation revealed the vehicle driven by Sanchez was stolen in San Jose. Sanchez was on active Post Release Community Supervision and was driving on a suspended driver’s license. A canister of pepper spray was also found in the car.

Anyone who may have witnessed this incident is asked to contact Traffic Investigator Nick Cusimano at 408-615-4764.

--Image courtesy of Santa Clara Police Department