David Kawashima Killed in DUI Hit-and-Run on Park Avenue [Tustin, CA]

62-Year-Old Man Dies after Drunken Driver Crashes into His Vehicle in Tustin, Pedro Pantoja Jr. Arrested

 
TUSTIN, CA (April 19, 2021) – David Kawashima was killed in a DUI hit-and-run crash Sunday morning in Tustin.
 
The crash happened around 8:45 a.m. on April 18 in the 2800 block of Park Avenue near Warner Avenue.
 
According to Tustin police, the 62-year-old victim from Orange was driving a vehicle when an alleged drunk driver crashed into his vehicle. Kawashima suffered fatal injuries from the crash and died at the scene.
 
When officers arrived, the suspect fled in the car, which police later discovered was reported stolen.
 
The driver, 29-year-old Pedro Pantoja Jr. of Diamond Bar, traveled north on Jamboree Road for about 300 yards when he collided with another vehicle.
 
A female passenger in Pantoja’s car sustained injuries from the crash.
 
Irvine police arrested Pantoja and booked him on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter, causing injury to his passenger while driving under the influence, vehicle theft, parole violation and evading a police officer.
 
Authorities asked anyone with further information to call Irvine police Detective Roberto Solis at 949-724-7024. Tipsters can also call Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-847-6227.

We would like to offer our deepest condolences to the family and friends of David Kawashima.

At The Law Offices of Daniel Kim, we strive to ensure that families of wrongful death victims receive what they rightfully deserve. If you have lost a loved one in a DUI hit-and-run crash, contact us today. We will work with you personally to better understand your situation. Our legal team is 100% dedicate to assisting you throughout every step of the process. Call us for a free consultation at (800) 895-7199. You can also request a copy of the police report for your reference. Your case is our priority, so you can focus on things that matter.