CHP Press Release:

On Sunday, July 8, 2012, at approximately 0120 hours, 36 year old Joe Serna, of Eureka, was driving his 1983 Toyota Land Cruiser eastbound on Myrtle Ave. at approximately 20 mph.  Serna turned left (north) onto 17th Street directly into the path of 19 year old Justin Gross, of Fortuna, who was driving a 2012 Honda Civic.  He was traveling westbound on Myrtle Ave., just east of 17th street.  Gross was unable to take evasive action and the right front of the Honda struck the right side passenger doors.  The impact caused the Toyota to overturn on its driver side, striking a 57 year old Eureka man who was walking within the crosswalk at 17th Street.  After the collision, Serna attempted to flee the scene on foot but was restrained by the passengers for the Honda and witnesses.  Gross and Armstrong both received minor injuries and were transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital for complaint of back pain.  After being medically cleared, Serna was transported and booked into Humboldt County Jail for 192(C)(3) PC- Vehicular Manslaughter, 23153(A) VC- Driving Under the Influence causing injury or death, 23153(B) VC- Driving Under the Influence causing injury or death w/ BAC over .08%, and 20001(A) VC- Hit-run causing injury or death.

This collision is being investigated by the California Highway Patrol.