Alexander Cota Jr. Among Three Dead in Monterey Park DUI Crash, Driver Arrested

Monterey Park, CA – In a tragic early morning accident on Friday, three individuals lost their lives in a single-vehicle collision in Monterey Park. The driver, now in custody, is suspected of driving under the influence. Officers from the Monterey Park Police Department responded to the crash at the intersection of East Graves Avenue and Cecil Street at 12:34 a.m., where they found an SUV that had collided with a tree, struck three other vehicles, and overturned onto its roof.

According to Sgt. Rudy Contreras of the Monterey Park Police Department, one victim was ejected from the vehicle and landed on the roof of a nearby residence, where they were declared dead at the scene. Two adults who were inside the SUV also died at the scene. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner later identified one of the victims as 34-year-old Alexander Cota Jr.

The driver, who was outside the vehicle assisting her 7-year-old daughter out of the SUV, was located by officers. Both mother and daughter were transported to Los Angeles General Medical Center with minor injuries. Sgt. Contreras noted that the driver was apprehended on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Preliminary reports from NBC 4 indicate that the driver was speeding before the collision. The Monterey Park Police Department is urging anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward with information. Witnesses can contact the department at 626-307-1200.

The community is in shock following the fatal crash, which underscores the severe consequences of driving under the influence. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on gathering all relevant details to understand what led to this tragic event. The Monterey Park Police Department is working diligently to piece together the events and ensure that justice is served.

The loss of three lives, including Alexander Cota Jr., has left a significant impact on the Monterey Park community. Friends and family of the victims are grieving this profound loss, and the community is rallying to support them during this difficult time. The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of road safety. Further updates from the investigation are anticipated as authorities work to provide clarity and closure for the victims’ families.