UPDATE: A Long Beach woman is facing serious legal consequences after being charged with vehicular manslaughter in connection to a tragic incident that resulted in the death of a beloved pastor. Amber Calderon, 43, was found to have fentanyl, meth, and marijuana in her system when she drove into three bicyclists in Huntington Beach earlier this year. The crash claimed the life of a 45-year-old pastor and father of four, igniting outrage and sorrow within the community.
The incident took place on February 25, 2023, when Calderon allegedly struck the group of cyclists. The District Attorney’s office confirmed that toxicology reports revealed the presence of multiple drugs in her system, leading to the upgraded charges announced on October 3, 2023.
The pastor, whose identity has not yet been publicly released, is remembered as a devoted family man and a respected leader in his community. His sudden death has left a profound impact on friends, family, and congregants, many of whom have expressed their grief and anger over the circumstances.
Authorities are emphasizing the severity of driving under the influence, particularly with powerful substances like fentanyl, which has been linked to a surge in fatalities across the United States. This case serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by impaired driving.
Calderon is set to appear in court next week, where she will face the upgraded charges. Legal experts suggest that the evidence presented, including the toxicology report, could significantly impact the outcome of her case.
As communities rally around the victim’s family, there is a growing call for stricter regulations and awareness campaigns to combat drug-impaired driving. Local advocacy groups are planning to hold vigils and discussions to honor the pastor’s memory and to push for change.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.
