A retired Bronx police officer has been charged with vehicular homicide, driving while intoxicated, and resisting arrest resulting from his role in a fatal DUI accident. On May 31, 44-year-old Jorge Hernaiz was operating a 2013 Toyota Camry intoxicated when he struck a pedestrian at approximately 3 a.m. The accident occurred near Broadway and West 254th St. when 34-year-old Marino Nunez was hit by Hernaiz’s vehicle. Witnesses claim Hernaiz stopped, exited his vehicle and attempted to pull Nunez from beneath the car. When authorities and emergency personnel arrived at the scene of the accident, Nunez was on the ground with a large amount of blood near his body. Nunez was transported to the hospital where he died a few days later from his injuries. At the scene, officers attempted to restrain Hernaiz because he was obviously intoxicated, and he resisted arrest. It took several police officers to eventually apprehend him, and he was given a blood alcohol test that proved he was three times over the legal limit. On Thursday, Hernaiz pleaded not guilty to the charges, and if convicted will face up to 25 years in prison. The judge set his bail to $350,000.
According to Mother’s Against Drunk Driving, every two minutes an individual is injured in a drunk driving accident. Despite the numerous statistics and warnings issued to drivers, several individuals choose to make the negligent decision to operate a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a drunk driving accident, it is important to consult an experienced St. Louis drunk driving accident attorney.
At Meyerkord & Kurth, our attorneys know that losing a loved one is devastating and that no amount of money will replace them. We will take all necessary action to hold the negligent driver that caused the accident, accountable for their recklessness. Our attorneys will fight to recover the maximum compensation for your damages while supporting you with compassion throughout the case. Contact our office for a free consultation.