A tragic Sacramento DUI crash has turned fatal, claiming the life of 50-year-old Nathan Christopher Scott Thomas, a father of a 12-year-old boy. The collision occurred just before midnight on August 21 at Ninth and T streets near Southside Park.
Police say Richard Lee Newman Jr., 33, of Sacramento, was driving under the influence when his vehicle struck Thomas’s car. Both drivers were hospitalized — Thomas with life-threatening injuries and severe brain trauma, and Newman with minor ones.
Weeks in Critical Condition
Thomas was rushed to UC Davis Medical Center, where he underwent a craniotomy to address severe brain trauma. Despite the efforts of doctors and the prayers of loved ones, his condition never improved.
Family members launched a GoFundMe campaign while he was in a coma, writing: “His brain injuries were far beyond repair and as the days turned into weeks, his condition continued to deteriorate despite all of our hopes and prayers.”
On September 11, Thomas passed away. His family honored his wish to be an organ donor with a touching “honor walk” at UC Davis. A celebration of life is planned for November 2 in Roseville.
Legal Consequences for the DUI Driver
Newman was initially arrested on August 23 and charged with DUI causing great bodily injury in Sacramento Superior Court. Following Thomas’s death, prosecutors have announced that Newman will also face charges of vehicular manslaughter. He remains in custody at Sacramento County Main Jail and is scheduled to return to court on October 22.
Under California Vehicle Code §23153, driving under the influence that causes injury is a felony. If a victim dies, prosecutors can pursue additional charges under Penal Code §191.5 for vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, which can carry significant prison time.
The Broader Impact of DUI in California
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, 1,355 people died in alcohol-related crashes in 2022, accounting for about one-third of all traffic fatalities statewide. Families like Thomas’s are left grappling not only with grief but also with financial burdens such as medical costs, lost income, and funeral expenses.
How We Can Help
If you or a loved one has been affected by a tragedy like this Sacramento DUI crash, know that you don’t have to navigate this difficult time alone. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to provide compassionate, expert guidance. We offer:
- Free Consultations: Learn about your rights and options without any upfront costs.
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Medical Treatment You Need, Money You Deserve
Take the First Step Toward Justice
No family should face the aftermath of a preventable DUI crash alone. If you’ve experienced a loss or injury due to impaired driving, contact the Brain Injury Help Center for a free consultation.
Let us help you pursue accountability, compensation, and peace of mind.
