[12-04-2024] Orange County, CA – 25-Year-Old Woman Dies in Police Chase of Arson Suspect in Fountain Valley
Fountain Valley, Orange County – A police chase that resulted in the tragic death of a 25-year-old woman originated from an arson investigation in Fountain Valley, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
The high-speed pursuit lasted just one minute, with the suspect, 43-year-old Timothy Bradford Cole, reportedly driving a Dodge Ram truck at 90 miles per hour, according to Fountain Valley police.
Cole ran a red light at the intersection of Magnolia and Ellis, crashing into a BMW SUV. The collision claimed the life of Hong Ngoc Nguyen, who was inside the vehicle.
The events leading up to the chase began when Cole allegedly set fire to the home of his future brother-in-law by pouring lighter fluid into the front yard and igniting it.
“I saw the man who I know will be my future brother-in-law start the fire at my house,” said homeowner Shane Schmidt, who added he was unsure of Cole’s motive. Neighbors quickly extinguished the flames before they could spread.
Approximately two and a half hours after the arson report, officers spotted Cole getting into his truck near Brookhurst Street. When police attempted to stop him, Cole fled, initiating the pursuit that ended in the fatal crash.
“Officers barely had time to engage in a pursuit,” said Sgt. Henry Hsu of the Fountain Valley Police Department. “The suspect rapidly increased his speed, and tragically, it resulted in this loss of life.”
Cole and three occupants of the BMW were taken to the hospital. Nguyen later succumbed to her injuries.
“This is absolutely horrifying and infuriating,” Schmidt remarked. “There was no reason for this to escalate so recklessly. Knowing that a young woman won’t return home to her family is unbearable.”
Cole suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Once discharged from the hospital, he is expected to face several felony charges.
Source: NBC
Who Could Claim Compensation for This Accident?
Compensation claims for the death of a person, like the 25-year-old woman in this case, typically fall under wrongful death claims or survivorship claims. The individuals or entities eligible to claim compensation often depend on local laws, but the following people are usually eligible:
1. Immediate Family Members
- Spouse: If the deceased was married, their spouse typically has the strongest claim.
- Children: Biological, adopted, or sometimes stepchildren may be eligible to file a claim.
- Parents: If the deceased was unmarried and had no children, parents may claim compensation.
2. Dependents or Financially Affected Parties
- Individuals who were financially dependent on the deceased (e.g., a domestic partner or extended family members) may be eligible, depending on the laws in the jurisdiction.
3. Estate Representatives
- The executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate can file a claim on behalf of the estate for damages such as funeral costs, medical bills, and lost income.
Types of Compensation They May Claim:
- Economic Damages: Funeral and burial costs, medical bills before death, lost income, and future financial support.
- Non-Economic Damages: Loss of companionship, guidance, emotional support, or the emotional suffering caused by the death.
The family or representatives should consult an experienced California wrongful death lawyer to ensure they understand their rights and options. The attorney can also help determine liability—whether it’s the driver, law enforcement, or other parties—and pursue compensation accordingly.
If you’re looking for a personal injury lawyer in Orange County CA, call My Lawyer Mark at (866) 721-5808. We have experience, understand the law, and know how to win. Our lawyers fight tooth and nail to obtain justice and the maximum compensation for victims and their families. If you also need a copy of this or any other accident police report, fill out this online form to request it for free:
