Rufus Lucas, 22, Killed in Oceanside Rollover Crash on Mission Avenue
OCEANSIDE (August 6, 2018) – A motorist was killed after an alleged hit-and-run collision along Mission Avenue last week Tuesday, according to San Diego Union-Tribune.
The victim has been identified as 22-year-old Rufus Lucas, of Oceanside.
As per the article, Oceanside police initially believed Lucas died after his Toyota Echo rolled over on Mission Avenue. After gathering more information and evidence, officials determined that a second vehicle was involved in the wreck.
Results of the investigation indicated that a 1995 Toyota Camry which drove from the eastbound lanes to westbound side allegedly made a U-turn on Mission Avenue. As the driver, 29-year-old Rijal Blueberries St. Michel, executed the turn, he collided with the Toyota Echo.
Rijal St. Michel, 29, Arrested For Hit-and-Run
Lucas lost control of his car which ultimately rolled over before coming to a stop in the eastbound lanes. The accident occurred on July 31 at about 9:45 p.m. near Fireside Street and El Camino Real.
Police affirmed that Lucas died as a result of the crash. Meanwhile, St. Michel briefly pulled over but then fled the scene.
St. Michel was arrested and booked into the Vista Detention Center on Sunday, August 5. He was being held in lieu of $1 million bail on suspicion of felony counts of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and hit-and-run causing injury or death.
We offer our prayers and most heartfelt condolences to the family members and friends of Mr. Rufus Lucas during such a difficult time.
San Diego County Wrongful Death Lawyer
In this case. it is evident that Mr. Rijal St. Michel will be held fully responsible for causing the tragic incident that led to the death of the other motorist involved. Leaving the scene following a crash is a serious crime and punishable by law especially if the collision tragically killed another individual.
The surviving family of Mr. Rufus Lucas will have then the right to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault party. Family members of wrongful death victims will be entitled to a recompense for the funeral costs, loss of future income and loss of love and companionship.
If your loved one has been a victim in an auto accident due to the negligence or wrongdoing of another person, we encourage you to call Johnson Attorneys Group and speak with our experienced San Diego County wrongful death lawyer to help you. We will fight aggressively for your legal rights and get the justice you deserve. Contact us at 855-703-4186 for a free case consultation.
JM Johnson
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