Pedestrian Killed in Traffic Collision in front of Church

Los Angeles: One person was killed and four others were injured Sunday afternoon after a Father’s Day Mass at St. Marks Catholic Church.

On June 16, 2008, at about 1:15 p.m., a 2002 Nissan Xterra, driven by 56-year-old Guillermina Velasquez, was driving on Coeur D’Alene Avenue, near Naples Avenue when a passenger in her vehicle had a sudden medical emergency causing Velasquez to become distracted. The distraction caused Velasquez to lose control of her vehicle and run into several pedestrians standing in front of St. Marks Catholic Church.

Cecilia Castillo, 30-years of age, was killed by the impact. Four other pedestrians received minor to moderate injuries. A 70-year-old female received minor abrasions and complained of pain; a 35-year-old female suffered a broken tooth and lacerations; a 37-year-old man had a right leg and pelvis fracture; and a 2-year-old little girl had minor injuries that included complained of pains and abrasions.

There are no charges pending against Velasquez.

The Los Angeles Police Department West Traffic Division Detective Section is handling the investigation. They can be contacted at 213-473-0234. On weekends and holidays, the toll-free number is 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).