Man Killed by Alleged Drunken Driver in Pasadena Identified

Authorities have released the identity of a 36-year-old man who was struck and killed by a suspected drunken driver in Pasadena on Friday night.

Christopher Andrew Mendez died in the 11:30 p.m. collision along Washington Boulevard, at Palm Terrace, Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner spokeswoman Sarah Ardalani said. A city of residence was not available.

He was crossing Washington Boulevard at the unmarked intersection when he was hit by an SUV heading west, Pasadena police Lt. Anthony Russo said. Paramedics pronounced Mendez dead at the scene.

The driver remained at the scene, Russo said. Police determined he appeared to be under the influence of alcohol.

Martin Cesar Villagomez, 48, of Pasadena was booked on suspicion of murder, police said.

According to Los Angeles County Superior Court records, he had previous convictions including driving with a blood-alcohol level above .08% in 2003 and 1999, as well as reckless driving in 1995.

Under California law, repeat DUI offenders may be charged with murder if subsequent DUI-related collisions result in death.

According to county booking records, bail for Villagomez was set at $2 million pending a scheduled arraignment hearing Tuesday in the Pasadena branch of L.A. County Superior court.

Any witnesses, or anyone with information, can reach Pasadena police at (626) 744-4501. Tips may also be submitted anonymously to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

See also:

Driver Accused of DUI, Murder After Striking Pedestrian in Pasadena: Officials