Southern California Woman Faces Charges After Fatal Crashes While Out on Bail
LONG BEACH, Calif. — A 24-year-old woman from Southern California was arrested Wednesday following two deadly collisions that occurred just months apart, authorities said. Ahkeyajahnique Owens was free on bail after allegedly killing a bicyclist in an October crash when she was involved in a January hit-and-run that claimed two more lives.
The Long Beach Police Department reported that Owens was initially charged with felony vehicular manslaughter for the October 6 incident in which a bicyclist was fatally struck. Despite this pending case, she remained out on bail. On January 4, Owens allegedly struck another vehicle in a hit-and-run crash that resulted in the deaths of Gilberto Lopez, 21, and Bobbi Smith, 24, and left three others injured.
Video surveillance and forensic evidence have linked Owens to both crashes, according to police statements. Owens voluntarily turned herself in to authorities and was booked on a $200,000 bail. Officials have not disclosed the amount of bail set after the first crash. The investigation into the January collision is ongoing, with additional charges expected once the case is presented to the District Attorney’s Office next week.
This case has reignited discussions about the bail system and its role in public safety. The California Courts system allows for bail as a means to ensure defendants appear in court, but critics argue that it can sometimes lead to dangerous individuals remaining free. The Bureau of Justice Assistance provides resources on bail reform efforts nationwide, highlighting the balance between defendants’ rights and community safety.
Long Beach police have not yet released detailed information regarding the causes of either crash, but the use of video and forensic evidence underscores the role of modern investigative techniques in traffic fatality cases. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration emphasizes the importance of such evidence in reconstructing crashes and supporting prosecutions.
Owens’ arrest comes amid broader national conversations about traffic safety and the consequences of hit-and-run incidents. According to the NHTSA’s data, hit-and-run crashes have been increasing in recent years, posing significant challenges to law enforcement and victim families alike.
As the Long Beach community grapples with the loss of three lives in these tragic incidents, officials continue to investigate and prepare charges that reflect the severity of the offenses. The case also serves as a somber reminder of the critical need for effective policies that protect public safety while ensuring justice is served.
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