From the California Highway Patrol:
On the afternoon of Sunday, August 7, the driver of a Toyota 4Runner rolled his vehicle and sustained major injuries.
At approximately 2:13 p.m., 19 year old Brandon Phillip Spalino of McKinleyville was driving a 1992 Toyota 4Runner northbound on Central Avenue south of Picket road. For reasons still under investigation Spalino failed to stop at a red light. Spalino’s vehicle veered off the roadway where it collided into a wooden sign post and a large pine tree causing the 4Runner to roll onto its side. Spalino suffered major injuries as a result of the collision and was transported to Mad River Community Hospital by Mad River Ambulance. DUI is believed to be a contributing factor in this collision.
The California Highway Patrol would like to take this unfortunate opportunity to remind motorist that distracted driving ends lives. Do not risk your life or the lives of others just to read a text message or answer a call. Pull over when safe to use your phone.