News: Man facing charges in crash that killed woman near South Florida Fairgrounds

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Authorities arrested a driver on criminal charges in connection with a fatal crash in Palm Beach County Saturday morning, the Palm Beach Post reports.

The suspect, identified as 26-year-old Dearly Gomez of West Palm Beach, was driving a Toyota Corolla when the accident occurred at about 3:35 a.m in the area of Southern Boulevard and Sansburys Way near the South Florida Fairgrounds.

Investigators said Gomez failed to slow down while approaching the intersection and slammed into a Honda Accord that was stopped at a red light.

The impact of the crash ruptured the Accord’s fuel tank and caused the car to catch fire.  The driver of the Accord, 21-year-old Santia Elveus of Lake Worth Beach, was pronounced dead at the scene.  Gomez got out of the car and walked away from the crash scene, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.  He was later apprehended nearby, and was identified by a witness as the driver of the Corolla.

Authorities said Gomez was an unlicensed driver whose blood-alcohol level measured above the legal limit. Gomez, who was hospitalized after the crash, is charged with vehicular homicide and DUI manslaughter.

If you have lost a loved one in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, the Miami wrongful death lawyers at Hickey Law Firm would like to offer our assistance during this difficult time. We will help you understand your legal options, and can fight for compensation to cover the expenses you have sustained as a result of your tragic loss. Contact us online, call 888-913-4296, or text 844-984-1937 to discuss your case with our dedicated legal team.