BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - The family of Nancy Joyce Garrett, who was killed early morning on Sunday on Sept. 28, when a Kern County Sheriff Deputy crashed his vehicle with hers, is now suing the sheriff's department.
The law offices of Chain, Cohn, and Stiles released information today announcing the law suit as well as detailing information about 72-year-old Garrett and her involvement with the community.
Garrett died when sheriff's deputy Nicholas Clerico collided his cruiser with her vehicle at the intersection of North Chester Avenue and China Grade Loop in Oildale.
According to officials with the California Highway Patrol, Deputy Clerio was responding to the nearby Longbranch Saloon when the accident occurred just before 2 a.m.
It is also reported that Clerico had his siren and lights on but is still under investigation whether the signal light was red.
The CHP's Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) is currently investigating the incident.
According to a CHP spokesperson, when approaching an intersection, an officer has to take into account the safety of the people in that intersection and proceed at a slow and safe speed, safely clearing the way before
A sheriff's department spokesperson said deputy Clerico has been with the department for three and a half years.
He was treated for for a concussion and head injuries.
Chain, Cohn, and Stiles also represented the family of Daniel Ace Hiler, who was hit and killed by Kern County Sheriff’s Deputy John Swearengin more than two years ago. That case resulted in a combined $8.8 million settlement.