Protesting Biker Killed By San Diego DUI Hit and Run Suspect
According to a St. Louis Post-Dispatch article dated June 22nd, 2009, a native San Diegan named Jim Gafney lost his life on US Highway 50 at around 12:40 in the morning when he was hit by a drunk driver. Gafney, 65, was a veteran of the US Navy who had been stationed at Camp Pendleton. He also had worked extensively as a computer engineer. He was on route to Washington DC to protest the federal bailouts for banks and big businesses in what he had deemed “The Mad as Hell Bike Ride Across the U.S.”
Facts of the Accident
According to police reports, Gafney was about halfway to his destination when a 27 year-old man named Leon Marlum hit him from behind in a ’97 Nissan Altima. Marlum fled the scene but was later stopped and arrested by police. He faces an array of charges, including leaving the scene of a deadly driving accident, aggravated DUI, and failure to reduce speed to avoid a crash.
Often drivers like Mr. Marlum who hit pedestrians, bicyclists, or other motorists while driving under the influence react in panic and thus greatly aggravate their potential legal woes. In Southern California, for instance, a DUI offender who flees an injury accident can be charged with a felony and can face severe fines and jail time just for leaving the scene.
For fast and attentive assistance with your San Diego DUI matter, turn to the Law Offices of Stephen Brodsky. Attorney Brodsky has vast experience in dealing with all manner of DUI charges, including vehicular manslaughter and hit and run charges. Find out more about how attorney Brodsky can help you here at www.CriminalAttorneySanDiego.com.
