A Long Beach woman, Amber Kristine Calderon, is facing upgraded vehicular manslaughter charges following toxicology results that revealed a combination of drugs in her system during a fatal hit-and-run incident. Calderon, who is 43, struck three bicyclists on October 20, including Eric John Williams, a 45-year-old pastor and father of four who died at the scene. The drug cocktail found to have been in Calderon's system included methamphetamine, fentanyl, and marijuana, as reported by KTLA.
The crash, which took place on Pacific Coast Highway in Huntington Beach, has led to Calderon facing a maximum sentence of 12 years and four months if convicted under the new charges. Despite the car's damage and a flat tire, Calderon continued to drive nearly two-thirds of a mile past the initial crash site, evading a parking kiosk without payment before being apprehended by a witness. Calderon’s litany of charges includes one felony count of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated without gross negligence, and other related offenses given by the Orange County District Attorney's Office.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer expressed deep sorrow over the irreversible damage caused by Calderon’s actions. "Four young children will wake up Christmas morning for the first time without their father because of the selfish decision of a stranger to drive under the influence of drugs, and that is an image that I will never be able to get out of my head," Spitzer stated, as obtained by KTLA. He also stressed the widespread community tragedy stemming from a preventable act of driving under the influence.
As the court proceedings continue, Calderon has received a Watson advisement, warning that further driving under the influence could lead to murder charges. Additional court orders restrict her from driving, consuming alcohol and drugs without a prescription, and from possessing drugs or being in establishments primarily selling marijuana. According to the Orange County District Attorney's Office, Calderon's next court appearance is set for February 20, 2026.
In memory of Williams, a candlelight vigil was held by hundreds, including friends, family, and church members. His dedication to his community and passion for cycling were highlighted at the event. Williams also left behind a significant legacy within his Garden Grove church community, where he previously worked, as stated by his father, who praised his son for living and loving well. A GoFundMe has also been created to support the Williams family following their loss.
