Teen Killed by Suspected Drunk Driver in Long Beach Hit-and-Run on Mother’s Day

LONG BEACH, CA (May 13, 2024) — Mother’s Day turned tragic for a Southern California family after a 17-year-old boy was fatally struck by a hit-and-run driver in Long Beach.
The incident happened Sunday around 12:40 a.m., when a 2012 Cadillac SUV, driven by 35-year-old Karen Mativa of Compton, collided with the teen on his scooter on Orange Avenue.
After hitting the young victim, Mativa reportedly continued driving, crashing into a nearby apartment building before fleeing the scene on foot. She was later apprehended by authorities and has been charged with driving under the influence, hit-and-run resulting in death or injury, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and assault with a deadly weapon. Her bail is set at $130,000.
The victim in the Long Beach hit-and-run, whose name has not been released, was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. A memorial has been set up at the crash site to honor his memory. The Long Beach Police Department continues to investigate the incident, noting speed and impaired driving as key factors.
In response to such devastating events, RTM Law, APC Personal Injury Attorney is dedicated to supporting the rights of families affected by the reckless actions of drunk drivers. If you or a loved one has been a victim of a similar tragedy, it is crucial to understand your rights and options for filing a claim. Our experienced drunk driving injury attorneys in LA can provide the guidance and representation needed to handle these challenging circumstances and pursue justice for your loss.
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