An alleged drunk driver killed a woman in Garland on April 21.
According to authorities and her family, 25-year-old Lesley Mandujano was involved in an accident while returning home from a movie night with friends.
Garland police say the incident happened at the intersection of Country Club Drive and U.S. 66. Another car had run a red light that midnight and had struck Mandujano’s car. The vehicle then rammed into a telephone pole in the area.
Mandujano died before first responders arrived.
The driver of the car that crashed into Mandujano’s was arrested at the scene. Police identified him as 19-year-old Lonnie Komahcheet.
According to an arrest affidavit, officers found that Lonnie’s breath smelled of alcohol. They also said he had “stuttered speech.”
Officers also said that Lonnie admitted to smoking marijuana earlier in the day. The affidavit stated that he denied drinking alcohol initially but confessed to drinking a beer when pressed by detectives.
Komahcheet has been charged with intoxication manslaughter and was taken to the Dallas County jail.
Mandujano’s family described her as an ambitious woman who loved life.
“She was funny and loud, and she was always smiling, and she would always annoy me but she was my baby and I loved her so much,” her mum, Rosario Saenz, said.
Jose Mandujano, the victim’s brother, answered the door when police came to deliver the news of the accident. “My sister didn’t deserve this,” he said.
Jose said that breaking the news to his parents was the most challenging part after receiving notice of his sister’s condition.
Mandujano’s funeral was held on April 29, NBC 5 reported. Since her death, sympathizers have left flowers and candles at the intersection where the incident occurred.
For more Dallas crime-related news, see how Dallas City Councilmember Jaynie Schultz of District 11 was named The Dallas Express’ Crime Boss of the Month for February 2022.