Garden Grove Woman Sentenced in Fatal DUI Crash That Killed Pregnant Woman

ANAHEIM, CA (April 13, 2024) — A Garden Grove woman, Courtney Fritz Pandolfi, 44, was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison on Friday for a tragic incident that occurred in Anaheim in 2020, where she struck and killed 23-year-old pregnant Yesenia Lisette Aguilar.
Pandolfi pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and driving under the influence of a drug causing injury, among other charges.
The fatal Anaheim DUI crash took place on August 11, 2020, as Aguilar was walking with her husband on the sidewalk. Pandolfi’s vehicle jumped the curb, hitting Aguilar, who was 35 weeks pregnant. Emergency responders delivered Aguilar’s baby via C-section at the hospital.
During the sentencing, the victim’s husband, James Alvarez, expressed his grief and the impact on their daughter, born from the tragedy, emphasizing the ongoing dangers of impaired driving. Pandolfi’s prior DUI convictions and a Watson Waiver escalated her charges to second-degree murder, underscoring the severe legal consequences of repeated DUI offenses.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a similar incident, RTM Law Firm is here to provide support and guidance. Contact DUI accident and injury attorneys to explore your legal options and ensure justice is served.
Do you need compassionate support and effective representation?
No fees until we win. Available 24/7.