Fatal Hit and Run Accident Leads To Arrest Of Unlicensed 17 Year-Old Driver

M. Brandon Smith

Attorney
(866) 735-1102 Ext 305

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The tragic death of an elderly Marietta man who was killed as a result of a hit and run driver has now lead to the arrest of 17 year-old Israel Ruiz. The decedent was reportedly turning left from Bells Ferry Road onto Cobb Parkway when Ruiz ran a red light and slammed into the decedent's vehicle. He was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital but subsequently died two days later due to his injuries from the hit and run accident. Ruiz, who was driving a Windstar minivan, fled from the scene immediately after the accident. The hit and run driver has been charged with first-degree vehicular homicide, hit and run, driving without a license, driving an unregistered vehicle, and disregarding a traffic control device.

Had Ruiz remained at the scene, he most likely would have only faced misdemeanor charges as a result of the fatal car accident. Because he chose to flee the scene without regard for the safety and wellbeing of those who he injured in the hit and run accident, he now faces felony criminal charges. Ruiz will also assuredly face civil penalties for his deplorable actions as well when the decedent's estate brings a wrongful death claim against him for his wanton and willful actions.