San Francisco's streets have become the stage for a tragedy that brings to light the dangers of drunk driving once again. Manuel Diaz-Chi, a 28-year-old man, has been formally charged in connection with a fatal DUI car crash in the SOMA district. The Thursday arraignment found Diaz-Chi pleading not guilty to the charges, which include vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and driving under the influence of alcohol causing injury, the San Francisco District Attorney's Office announced.
On Tuesday, Diaz-Chi reportedly drove a Mazda van when the crash occurred. Court documents provide that he had been drinking the previous night and his blood alcohol concentration was determined to be well over the legal limit at .15% or higher. The incident claimed the life of an individual who was fatally struck and dragged at the intersection of 10th Street and Folsom Street. Eyewitness accounts and forensic evidence are expected to play a significant role in the ongoing investigation surrounding these grievous events.
Responding to the severity of the incident, the court has held Diaz-Chi on an $80,000 bail, citing the considerable public safety risk he presents. The case continues to unfold with the anticipation of a bail review hearing scheduled next Tuesday. In the meantime, law enforcement officials encourage any witnesses or persons with information to step forward to assist in ensuring a comprehensive examination of the facts.
