Oakland Teen Charged in Fatal Hit-and-Run of 73-Year-Old Woman

In connection with a fatal hit-and-run incident last summer, a 19-year-old Oakland resident, Christopher Perez, has been charged with the death of 73-year-old Santu Maya. The heartbreaking incident occurred when Perez allegedly crashed into Maya while she was crossing the street with her family on June 16.

According to authorities, Perez is charged with one felony count of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and one count of leaving the scene of an accident. Court records reveal that Perez pleaded not guilty during an arraignment on Feb. 15. He has been released on a $95,000 bail, with a condition to wear a GPS ankle monitor.

Santu Maya, a recent immigrant from Thailand to the San Francisco Bay Area, tragically lost her life during her routine evening walk at Foothill Boulevard and Vicksburg Avenue in Oakland. The collision, involving a Mercedes-Benz driven by Perez, resulted in severe head injuries for Maya. Despite immediate medical attention, she fell victim to her injuries.

The victim’s daughter and 10-year-old granddaughter were present during the devastating incident. In the aftermath, the daughter tearfully appealed for justice for her mother, expressing the profound pain of the loss.

Oakland Teen Charged in Fatal Hit-and-Run of 73-Year-Old Woman

Christopher Perez came under suspicion after being captured on surveillance cameras in the vicinity following the hit-and-run. The next court appearance for Perez is scheduled for April 4, as per court records obtained by The Mercury News.

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The tragic circumstances surrounding Santu Maya’s death highlight the emotional toll on her family and the community. As legal proceedings unfold, the case serves as a serious reminder of the importance of road safety and accountability for such unfortunate incidents.