Nefi Lopez Gutierrez, Azusena Gonzalez Killed in North Hollywood Crash

Vidal Cruz Jr., 31, Arrested on Murder Charges

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (April 15, 2026) — Nefi Lopez Gutierrez, 35, of El Monte, and Azusena Gonzalez, 50, of North Hollywood, have been identified as the two pedestrians killed in a violent early-morning crash in North Hollywood.

Prosecutors allege the driver, 31-year-old Vidal Cruz Jr. of Pacoima, was intoxicated and speeding when his vehicle struck the victims shortly after they exited a parked car along Colfax Avenue around 2:25 a.m. Sunday, April 12th. Authorities say the pair were standing near the shoulder when they were hit.

Gutierrez died at the scene, while Gonzalez was transported to a hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has charged Cruz with murder. He pleaded not guilty Tuesday and faces a possible life sentence if convicted.

Investigators say three other people remained inside a white Toyota Camry at the time of the crash and suffered less serious injuries. Following the initial impact, Cruz allegedly continued driving before veering into a residential driveway, where his vehicle struck several unoccupied cars and a home. No one inside the residence was hurt.

Police allege Cruz was driving at an unsafe speed while under the influence of alcohol at the time of the collision.

Cruz remains in custody on $4 million bail and is scheduled to return to court May 27, when a hearing date is expected to be set to determine whether the case will proceed to trial.

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When it matters most, trust Attorney James Johnson at Johnson Attorneys Group. We are a personal injury law firm serving clients who have been injured throughout California due to negligent motorists. If you were hurt in this collision, call 1-(800) 208-3538. We will request the police report, and the attorney will discuss your options. You are under no obligation to hire us, and there is no cost unless we win your case. Our personal injury law firm is a proud, longtime supporter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).