Twice-Convicted Drunk Driver Pleads Guilty in Fatal Irvine Crash [Santa Ana, CA]

IRVINE, CA (February 15, 2024) — Kamal Akwette Attoh, a twice-convicted drunk driver from Irvine, pleaded guilty on Friday to a second-degree murder charge stemming from an alcohol-fueled collision that claimed the life of a 44-year-old woman and injured her husband and two teenage children. 

 

Attoh faces a sentence of 15 years to life in prison and is scheduled for sentencing on April 8.

 

The tragic Irvine crash occurred on May 16, 2018, when Attoh’s vehicle struck the family as they were walking home from a nearby park in Irvine. Jeongmi Choi lost her life in the collision, while her husband suffered critical injuries and their two children were hospitalized.

 

In the aftermath of the collision, Attoh expressed remorse for his actions and chose to accept responsibility, sparing the victim’s family from the pain of a trial. However, his guilty plea cannot undo the devastation caused by his reckless behavior. 

 

The case serves as a stark reminder of the tragic consequences of driving under the influence. As the community mourns the loss of Jeongmi Choi and continues to support her family in their recovery, it also underscores the importance of holding accountable those who choose to endanger others on the roadways.