Los Angeles: On Thursday, November 28, 2002, at approximately 7:05 p.m., a male, driving a red Toyota pick-up truck was traveling westbound Vanowen Street, when he collided with a brown Nissan Sentra. After the collision, the Driver of the Toyota pick-up, identified as Daniel Smith, a 38 year-old, resident of Canoga Park, attempted to flee the scene on foot but was detained by witnesses. The suspect was later taken to Northridge Hospital for complained of injuries. The driver of the Nissan Sentra, Mrs. Elisa Delcarmen Garay, a 43 year-old, resident of Reseda, and her 20 year-old daughter Wendy Claros were both pronounced dead at the scene by the Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics. However, Mrs. Garay’s 15-year-old daughter who was also in the Nissan Sentra remains in critical condition at a nearby Hospital.

Prior to the accident and according to witnesses at the scene, they observed the suspect at a high rate of speed and weaving in traffic. Daniel Smith was arrested and booked for 191.5 of the Penal Code, vehicular manslaughter. Alcohol appears to be a factor in this tragic accident. This incident is currently under investigation by Valley Traffic Division.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is asked to contact Valley Traffic Detectives at 818-756-8391. During off-hours and on weekends, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detectives Information Desk, 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Renee’ Montoya, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.