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California authorities are investigating a violent head-on collision that killed one woman as a possible intentional act, PEOPLE confirms.
On Wednesday, shortly before 9 a.m., a silver Mercedes-Benz was driving southbound on the northbound side of Route 73 when it hit a BMW head-on, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The driver of the Mercedes, identified as 23-year-old Luke Fitch, had been driving erratically before entering the highway and hitting Melikyan’s vehicle at 100 miles per hour, DeMatteo says.
“Based on the driving we have beforehand, we kind of have to treat it as if it looks like an intentional act, a homicide thus far,” CHP Sgt. Todd Kovaletz told KTLA at the scene. “We’re trying to look into all possibilities, whether it qualifies as a collision or if it’s an intentional act.”
DeMatteo says investigators are looking at the case from all angles.
“It’s easier to start there and downgrade if we need to,” he says.
KTLA
Fitch was injured and taken to a local hospital in critical condition. He had sustained fractures to his ankle and femur and as of Thursday was in a medically induced coma. It is unknown if he has gained consciousness to answer questions, but no arrests have been made as of Friday, DeMatteo says.
Police are awaiting the results of a toxicology test to determine whether Fitch was under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
“The investigation is ongoing and it appears that it’s going to be a lengthy one,” DeMatteo says. “So it’s not something that’s going to be in a week or so.”
Anyone with information pertaining to the case is urged to call California Highway Patrol at (714) 567-6000.
source: people.com
