Westminster resident Flavio Isaias Davalos, 29, is facing charges of manslaughter and driving under the influence (DUI) after a fatal collision involving a pedestrian in Westminster. The incident occurred on Wednesday night, as first reported by orangecountytribune.com.
The charges follow an investigation into an incident near Beach Boulevard and 15th Street. This intersection is a busy area within the city of Westminster, a community of over 90,000 residents in Orange County. Around 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday, officers from the Westminster Police Department (WPD) responded to a report concerning an unconscious man found lying in a parking lot.
Upon arrival, officers discovered the man suffering from what authorities described as "significant injuries." These injuries were consistent with having been struck by a vehicle. Paramedics from the Orange County Fire Authority were called to the scene and pronounced the individual deceased. The identity of the victim is being withheld by authorities, pending notification of their next of kin.
The investigation led police to locate the involved vehicle a short distance away from the collision site. Subsequently, Flavio Isaias Davalos, identified by WPD Commander Michel Harvey, was detained. Investigators gathered evidence at the scene and noted "objective signs and symptoms of impairment" from Davalos. Based on these observations and collected evidence, authorities concluded that Davalos was allegedly under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time the incident occurred.
DUI-related incidents carry severe legal consequences in California, particularly when they result in fatalities, leading to charges such as manslaughter. The Westminster Police Department's Traffic Bureau has taken the lead in investigating this collision. Their work focuses on reconstructing the event and gathering all pertinent facts. The department serves the city by responding to emergencies, investigating crimes, and ensuring the safety of its streets and residents.
Authorities are seeking public assistance regarding the incident. The WPD Traffic Bureau has asked anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has any related information to contact Inspector Lin directly at (714) 548-3758. The ongoing investigation aims to provide a complete understanding of the circumstances surrounding the fatal event, which impacts the local community of Westminster and the broader Orange County area.
