An 81-year-old California woman has undergone a bilateral leg amputation following a suspected impaired driving incident that occurred on July 7. Cristina Vargas was having lunch at a sidewalk table outside Los Cinco Puntos in Los Angeles' Boyle Heights with her daughter, Gabriela Vargas, and a male friend when an SUV veered onto the sidewalk and crashed into their table.
Surveillance footage captured the moment the SUV struck the group, sending patrons and furniture airborne. Gabriela Vargas reported hearing screeching tires just before the impact and seeing headlights and a bumper before being thrown from her seat. She sustained a head injury and a deep laceration on her knee, while the male companion also required hospital treatment. Both have since recovered from their injuries.
Cristina Vargas's injuries were more severe, with her lower body pinned beneath the vehicle. She underwent three surgeries, which ultimately led to the amputation of both her legs. Despite the severity of her injuries, Vargas has expressed gratitude for being alive and is maintaining a positive outlook.
She is currently undergoing physical therapy at a rehabilitation center and is expected to return home soon. A GoFundMe campaign established by a friend has raised over $30,000 to assist the family with substantial medical bills, ongoing rehabilitation costs, and daily living expenses. The fundraiser highlights Cristina's vibrant and social nature, noting her love for dancing and her active participation in community events.
According to a police report, the driver of the SUV was allegedly impaired at the time of the crash. The unidentified driver was arrested and faces multiple felony charges. In an update on August 17, Gabriela Vargas thanked supporters for their contributions and shared that Cristina's recovery, though painful, is progressing slowly and steadily, with both mother and daughter remaining hopeful.