17-year-old pedestrian dead, boyfriend hospitalized after being struck in Baldwin Park

BALDWIN PARK, Calif. (KABC) -- A 17-year-old pedestrian was killed and her boyfriend injured Monday evening when they were struck by a vehicle at an intersection in Baldwin Park, authorities and relatives said.

The driver was booked on vehicular manslaughter charges. They had remained at the scene after the crash.

The collision was reported shortly before 10 p.m. at Pacific and Vineland avenues, the Baldwin Park Police Department said in a statement.

After officers and paramedics responded and gave medical assistance to the two victims, the girl was pronounced dead at the scene. She was later identified by family members as Cathy Gomez, a Baldwin Park resident.

"She was a great girl. Big heart, full of joy, always appreciated life. Always appreciated the little things we take for granted in life," cousin Lily Tirado said.

Investigators said Gomez's boyfriend was transported to a hospital for treatment. Cathy's family said she and her boyfriend were struck after they ate at a nearby taco stand. He is expected to survive.

Family members said Gomez was a junior at Sierra Vista High School and that it was her first year there. They also said she and her boyfriend had been together for a couple years and were inseparable.

"It appears the collision occurred as the pedestrians were crossing the street in the marked crosswalk," the police statement said, adding that alcohol and drugs did not appear to be factors in the incident.

The driver's name was not released after that person was arrested.

Anyone with information about the crash is asked to call the police department's Traffic Accident Investigation Team at (626) 960-1955.