Santa Monica Tourist Killed by DUI Driver

By Lookout Staff

August 23, 2012 -- An Australian man crossing the street with his family in Downtown Santa Monica Tuesday evening was fatally struck by a motorist driving under influence.

His eight-year-old daughter also was struck and suffered minor injuries. His wife, who was crossing with her husband and daughter, was not hit.

The incident -- which was captured on camera -- took place when the family, which was on vacation, "entered the roadway against a solid red 'Don’t Walk Sign'" on the corner of Third Street and Colorado Avenue.

The vehicle travelling eastbound on Colorado Avenue from 2nd Street had a green light when the family tried to cross.

"The driver was unable to avoid the pedestrians and struck two of the family members," said Sgt. Richard Lewis, the Police Department spokesman. 

The 50-year old victim suffered critical injuries and was transported to a local trauma center, Lewis said.  He died early Tuesday morning after succumbing to his injuries.

The driver was identified as 26-year old Cara Cameron of Westchester, California. She remained at the scene of the accident. 

"During the investigation, officers determined that Cameron was under the influence," Lewis said. 

Cameron was taken into custody and booked at the Santa Monica Jail for Felony Driving under the influence and Vehicular Manslaughter while Intoxicated. 

Cameron later posted $100,000 bail.  Her arraignment date has been set for September 21, 2012 at LAX Court Div. 145.

Anyone with information should contact Investigators Chris Dawson or Jason Olson at 310.458.8954 or Sergeant Phillbo Rubish at 310.458.8950 or the Santa Monica Police Department 24 hours at 310.458.8495.

Those who wish to remain anonymous can call WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME (1-800-78-27463), or submit the tip online at www.wetip.com.  Those who provide information will remain completely anonymous and may be eligible for a reward, up to $1,000, if your information leads to an arrest and conviction.