The Times of San Diego reports a woman accused of DUI and running a red light to cause a crash that killed a motorcyclist earlier this month pleaded guilty in court on Monday.
According to court documents, 51-year-old Sarah Meland was charged with DUI in connection to a crash on February 13 in San Carlos. A 67-year-old motorcyclist and local musician was killed in the crash.
Prosecutors allege that at approximately 6:00 a.m. Meland “intentionally” ran a red light at the intersection of Bisby Lake Avenue and Navajo Road. At her arraignment, the District Attorney’s Office alleged that Meland would routinely blow through the red light during her daily commute to work.
That morning, when she ran the red light, she caused the victim’s motorcycle to slam into the side of her 2020 Kia Soul. The motorcyclist was ejected from his vehicle and onto the pavement.
Paramedics and police officers with the San Diego Police Department responded to the scene of the crash. Despite all lifesaving efforts made by first responders, the man was reportedly declared dead shortly after he arrived at the hospital.
Meland was taken into custody on the charges of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and DUI.
Before a San Diego courtroom, Meland pleaded not guilty to the charges against her.
