On Friday, August 18, 2023, a City of Pomona employee and her son were involved in a major traffic collision on White Ave. north of Berkeley Ave. Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries, while her son survived the incident.
Due to the circumstances of the collision, the Pomona Police Department's Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) responded to the scene. Following a thorough and detailed investigation, officers arrested the other involved driver, 25-year-old (23 at the time of the incident) Meleni Fuentes of Pomona, on multiple charges.
The case was later presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. Ms. Fuentes ultimately pleaded guilty to Count 1: Murder and Count 2: DUI causing injury, including enhancements for great bodily injury.
On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, Ms. Fuentes was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison for the fatal collision.
Cases of this nature require significant time and thorough investigative efforts. We are grateful for the dedication of our officers and professional staff, who work tirelessly to ensure justice for victims and their families.