US News
California woman loses both legs after vehicle strikes outdoor dining area in Los Angeles
An 81-year-old mother underwent amputations following a July crash in Boyle Heights that authorities say involved an impaired driver.
The short version
- An 81-year-old woman had both legs amputated after an SUV veered onto a sidewalk and struck an outdoor dining table at a Los Angeles restaurant on July 7.
- Two other people were injured in the crash; both have since recovered while the primary victim continues physical therapy at a rehabilitation facility.
- Police allege the driver was impaired at the time of the incident, leading to multiple felony charges against an unidentified woman.
Key facts
- Cristina Vargas, 81, had both legs amputated after undergoing three surgeries following a July 7 vehicle crash at Los Cinco Puntos in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles.[Fox News]
- The crash occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. while Vargas was eating lunch outdoors with her daughter and a male friend.[Fox News]
- Vargas' daughter suffered a head injury and a leg laceration, while the third member of the group was also hospitalized; both have since recovered.[Fox News]
- According to police reports, the driver of the SUV was allegedly impaired, leading to the arrest and felony charging of an unidentified woman.[Fox News]
- An online fundraiser launched to assist with medical bills, accessibility modifications, and care has raised over $30,000.[Fox News]
What remains uncertain
- The identity of the driver and the specific substance involved in the alleged impairment have not been publicly disclosed in the reporting.[Fox News]