An 8-year-old girl has died following a horrific crash in Perris, California, on Saturday, authorities said. Camila Leon was identified as the victim who was killed when her family's vehicle was struck by another car driven by Silvia Corona, 52.
Corona was arrested and subsequently charged with gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and driving under the influence of alcohol causing injury, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. The collision occurred on the Ramona Expressway.
Leon's father and brother were critically injured in the crash, a GoFundMe organized by the family stated. "In an instant, the Leon Family’s lives were changed forever," the fundraiser read. "Their beautiful 8-year-old daughter, Camila, did not survive her injuries." The family expressed that the incident was caused by a "reckless and preventable choice."
Residents living near the crash site reported that speeding is a frequent problem in the area. "It’s right behind my house and we always, we either go down Rider or we turn on Ramona, so it could have happened to me, it could have happened to anyone, any of my neighbors, any of my friends that live here," said Perris resident Marisela Montes. "I have family that lives nearby, too, so it’s very concerning."
A spokesperson for Riverside County stated, "Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic crash on Saturday night. The County is currently supporting a widening project that the Riverside County Transportation Commission is working on along the Ramona Expressway. These improvements are expected to enhance pedestrian and driver safety." The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and no further details have been released.