Charges sought in fatal accident in South Gate

By WAVE STAFF

Story Created: Sep 23, 2009 at 7:19 PM PST

Story Updated: Sep 23, 2009 at 7:19 PM PST

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SOUTH GATE — The Police Department here has asked the district attorney’s office to file criminal charges against a motorist who caused the death of a 10-year-old boy in a traffic accident Aug. 22 at Tweedy Boulevard and San Vicente Avenue.

Ricardo Mercado was struck and killed by an SUV making a left-hand turn from Tweedy to San Vicente. His mother and 6-year-old sister suffered broken legs and his 12-year-old sister suffered abrasions. All four were in a clearly marked crosswalk, police said.

Witnesses said the woman driving the car may have been talking on her cellular phone at the time of the accident.

Criminal charges will be pursued against the driver and the passenger of the vehicle involved in the collision, police said.

The driver could face charges of vehicular manslaughter and conspiracy to provide false information to an officer during an investigation.

The passenger could face charges of conspiracy to provide false information to an officer.

The South Gate Police Officers Association has established a fund for the Mercado family. Contributions can be made to the South Gate POA c/o Mercado Family or by calling (323) 563-5436.

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concerned said on Monday, Oct 12 at 8:56 PM

why hasn't the driver been charged yet?? providing false info to a police officer!!!! what is wrong with this lady!!! enough already, she did it then tried to lie her way out of it, that is as good as a hit and run. I can't belive she is still out there driving around like she didn't do anything wrong!!

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