Guillermo Penaloza Arrested in Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash on 14th Street [Long Beach, CA]

1 Dead in Long Beach Auto Accident on 14th Street and Cherry Avenue

LONG BEACH, CA (August 4, 2024) – Friday night, authorities arrested Guillermo Penaloza after a fatal hit-and-run crash on 14th Street.

Initially, the suspect, 34-year-old  Penaloza of Long Beach, was seen in a Chevrolet Suburban by officers conducting proactive patrols in the area before the crash on Friday evening, according to the Long Beach Police Department. 

“They had a brief verbal exchange with him as they passed one another in their vehicles,” the police reported in a statement. “After the exchange, officers observed Penaloza fleeing the area at a high rate of speed. The officers were not engaged in a pursuit but followed the vehicle from a distance.”

Shortly thereafter, officers were dispatched to a hit-and-run crash involving two vehicles at 14th Street and Cherry Avenue. Penaloza allegedly sped west on 14th Street, entered the intersection at Cherry Avenue, and collided with a southbound four-door Saturn driven by a 33-year-old Long Beach man. The driver was rushed to the hospital and later succumbed to his injuries. His passenger, an unidentified woman, was hospitalized in critical condition.

Penaloza fled the scene on foot, prompting police to establish a perimeter and activate SWAT resources. After about 2 hours and 40 minutes, officers located and arrested him. 

Penaloza was taken to a hospital for medical clearance before being transported to the Long Beach Jail. He was arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter, felony hit and run, stolen vehicle, and resisting arrest. His bail was set at $50,000.

Anyone with information about the crash is encouraged to contact the LBPD at 562-570-7355. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling 800-222-8477 or visiting www.LACrimeStoppers.org.

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Sweet Lawyers extends our condolences to the family and community of the victim.

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Moving Forward after the Arrest of Guillermo Penaloza

While the loss of a dear one is irreversible, it is in the best interest of you and your family to be aware of what to do next.
 
The family of the victim must become aware that they may have the authority to file a wrongful death suit. A wrongful death suit can be the most beneficial step toward recovery.
 
Filing a wrongful death claim will help alleviate the financial burden the death of a relative has generated.
 
“Having legal representation after such a traumatic event will provide your family the space to heal while ensuring that justice is brought to your loved one,” says Mark Sweet, of Sweet Lawyers.
 
If you or someone you love has been involved in a similar auto accident, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. We strive for legal representation that encourages families to remain strong and find hope in their future. Above all, we understand the gravity of the situation at hand and want to help you. With our seasoned wrongful death lawyers, you will only need to tend to your well-being while we focus on your legal claim. Furthermore, our attorneys will ensure that you and your family receive the justice and compensation you deserve. For more information, call us now for a free consultation at (800) 674 7852.