MMA Fighter: No Rage Against Suspected Drunk Driver After Son Is Killed
HAWTHORNE (CBSLA.com) — A well-known Southern California MMA fighter says he feels no hatred, after his 15 month old son was struck and critically injured by a suspected drunk driver.
"I've always said 'someone takes from me, I take back,'" Marcus Kowal told CBS2 News. "But I don't feel any rage or hatred."
Liam Mikael Kowal was being pushed in a stroller by his 15-year-old aunt when both were struck by an SUV Saturday afternoon. The pair was in a crosswalk at the intersection of Hawthorne Boulevard and 133rd Street, which had flashing yellow lights, but was not a stop light.
"There's footage showing she pressed the button for the crosswalk," said Kowal, "but this lady didn't brake before she hit the stroller."
Donna Marie Higgins, 72, was arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run and felony drunk driving. Police say she had mixed alcohol and prescription medication. The lead investigator in the case says he expects charges against Higgins to be elevated to felony vehicular manslaughter.
Liam Kowal was taken to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, where he clung to life support for three days. His father and mother decided to donate Liam's organs.
"It looks like he's sleeping," said Marcus Kowal. "You have to accept that he's not there. I loved him so much."
Liam was taken into surgery for organ harvesting Tuesday afternoon.
"We've been told 8-9 kids will be saved because of Liam," Marcus Kowal said.
The family has set up a fundraising page and is accepting donations for a memorial foundation.
Liam Kowal's 15 year old aunt is recovering from injuries.
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