Motorist Sentenced in Deaths of 2 Children

A 43-year-old Echo Park man was sentenced Friday to 420 days in County Jail for his involvement in a Memorial Day Weekend accident that left two children dead.

Vincente Perez, who was convicted of misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter Aug. 6., also had his license suspended for three years and was ordered to pay restitution to the families of Luisa Cornejo, 2, and Edwin Camacho, 3.

During the sentencing, Gloria Rodriguez clutched a photograph of her daughter Luisa and wept each time attorneys mentioned her child’s death.

Police said Perez’s van hit an oncoming car May 24 while trying to make a left turn. Upon impact, the car spun out of control and struck Luisa, who was in a stroller, and Edwin as their parents chatted on the sidewalk.

After the crash, Perez remained at the accident scene but did not identify himself as the driver of the van for about 45 minutes, said Deputy City Atty. Ted Smith.

Perez’s two children, Vincent, 17, and Veronica, 15, testified Friday, saying they needed their father at home.

A hearing is set Oct. 11 to determine how much restitution Perez will pay for hospital and burial expenses.