A Southern California family is grieving the devastating loss of their 8-year-old daughter, who was killed in a violent crash involving a suspected drunk driver.
The child, identified as Camila Leon, died after the wreck Saturday on the Ramona Expressway in Perris.
Camila was traveling with her family when their vehicle was hit by 52-year-old Silvia Corona, who was taken into custody after the collision.
Corona has been charged with gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and driving under the influence of alcohol causing injury, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.
Camila’s father and brother were critically injured in the crash, the family said in a GoFundMe campaign created in the aftermath of the tragedy.
“In an instant, the Leon Family’s lives were changed forever,” the fundraiser said. “Their beautiful 8-year-old daughter, Camila, did not survive her injuries.”
The fundraiser said Camila’s mother is trying to remain strong for her husband and son as relatives struggle to cope with the heartbreaking loss.
“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.
