Deputies ID Man Suspected In Crash That Killed Toddler Following Lancaster Pursuit
LANCASTER (CBSLA.com) — Deputies Friday identified a pursuit suspect who allegedly caused a crash that killed a toddler and injured the child's mother.
Marvin Travon Hicks, 45, has been charged with felony evading arrest and vehicular manslaughter in death of 2-year-old Madison Ruano.
Ruano's mother, Tina, was injured during the crash on Thursday evening.
The pursuit began when deputies spotted Hicks, who was driving a black Toyota, run a red light at Sierra Highway and Avenue J, Sgt. Paul Pfrehm of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said.
Hicks allegedly refused to make a traffic stop and sped off north on Sierra Highway, where he reportedly continued to run through red lights.
Shortly after 5 p.m., Hicks drove through a red light at the intersection of Avenue I and 10th Street West, striking a blue Lexus carrying members of the Ruano family.
"The pursuit was extremely short and his behavior and driving habits were extremely dangerous to the community prior to any sort of initiation of the pursuit," Deputy Miguel Ruiz said.
The Ruanos were transported to a local hospital, where Madison later died.
Tina Ruano was listed in serious condition as of late Thursday. Her injuries do not appear to be life threatening.
"Our dear friends lost their precious miracle baby last night (12/6/2012) in a horrific car accident. Mom, Tina, is still in the hospital recovering but stable. We are asking for any support. Please pray for the Ruano family," family friend Lisa Shelton wrote on a Baby Madison Ruano Facebook page.
Hicks was treated for his injuries and arrested.
Toxicology results have yet to confirm if Hicks was under the influence at the time of the accident. However, officers on scene say he appeared to be drunk.
Hicks is being held on $1 million bail and has several prior misdemeanor convictions for reckless driving, DUI and hit and run, according to authorities.
