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Driver found guilty in DUI crash that killed woman in Arvada

Posted at 5:36 PM, Mar 23, 2017
and last updated 2017-03-23 19:36:38-04

GOLDEN, Colo. – A suspected drunk driver accused of hitting and killing a woman in Arvada after running a red light was found guilty of the crime in Jefferson County Court Thursday. 

Jose Sandoval-Cruz, 25, was reportedly speeding on southbound Sheridan Boulevard when he ran the red light at 10th and crashed with Monica Zapata, 40, who was driving westbound on 80th through the intersection on Sheridan back in February 2016.

Sandoval-Cruz and two passengers in the car got out and left the scene on foot but were arrested two hours later.

Zapata died from her injuries. Her 15-year-old daughter, who was a passenger in the car, was injured.  

The jury heard testimony that Sandoval-Cruz had a BAC level over three times the legal limit.

He was found guilty on counts of Vehicular Homicide – DUI, Vehicular Homicide – Reckless Driving, Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Death, DUI, Reckless Driving, Careless Driving with Injury and Driving without a License.

Sentencing is set for April 20 at 2 p.m.

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