A fatal car accident involving a deputy in Oildale, California is still under investigation, according to KERO 23 ABC News. A patrol car struck another vehicle, with passengers Daniel Hiler, 24, and Chrystal Jolley, 30. Both passengers died instantly. The driver of the patrol car, deputy John Swearengin, was reportedly traveling at high speeds and his lights and sirens were not on when he t-boned the other vehicle at an intersection.
The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the accident, and thus far, few details are available to the public. According to Kern County Sheriff Donny Youngblood, Deputy Swearengin was responding to a stolen vehicle incident just prior to the collision. Sheriff Youngblood held a press conference, but answered few questions, citing the investigation process.
“Whether it was a deputy or a civilian involved in an accident, it is troubling to everyone,” Sheriff Youngblood says. “It is troubling to me as the sheriff and to the people in the community.”
There is no evidence so far that Swearengin was not following protocol. Have you or a loved on been injured in a car accident?
Bonnici Law Group, APC—San Diego wrongful death attorney.