A family is mourning after their 8-year-old daughter was killed by a suspected drunk driver in a horrific car crash in Southern California.
Camila Leon was identified as the young victim in the wreck that occurred Saturday on the Ramona Expressway in Perris.
Leon and her family were driving when their car was struck by Silvia Corona, 52, who was arrested following the crash.
Corona has been charged with gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and for driving under the influence of alcohol causing injury for a collision, the Riverside County Sheriff’s department said.
Leon’s father and brother were left in critical condition, a GoFundMe from the family stated.
“In an instant, the Leon Family’s lives were changed forever,” the fundraiser read. “Their beautiful 8-year-old daughter, Camila, did not survive her injuries.”
The fundraiser added that while the girl’s mom is trying to stay strong for her son and husband, the rest of the family is also dealing with the heartbreaking circumstances.
“No family should have to endure this kind of pain, especially when it was caused by such a reckless and preventable choice,” the fundraiser stated.
Neighbors living near where the crash occurred said cars speed in the area all the time.
“It’s right behind my house and we always, we either go down Rider or we turn on Ramona, so it could have happened to me, it could have happened to anyone, any of my neighbors, any of my friends that live here,” Perris resident Marisela Montes told KTLA.
“I have family that lives nearby, too, so it’s very concerning.”
A Riverside County spokesperson said in a statement, “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic crash on Saturday night.
“The County is currently supporting a widening project that the Riverside County Transportation Commission is working on along the Ramona Expressway. These improvements are expected to enhance pedestrian and driver safety.”
The investigation into the crash is continuing and no other information has been released.
