The driver accused of rear ending a motorcyclist in December is expected back in court next month after making an initial appearance.
Clarence Calhoun, 72, a Monrovia resident, appeared at the Pomona Courthouse March 4. Prosecutors charged Calhoun with one count of vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence, according to Jane Robinson, assistant chief of Media Relations with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
Calhoun was arrested December 13 and booked on suspicion of DUI resulting in injury and driving with a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or greater causing bodily injury after striking the motorcyclist, identified by family as 65-year-old Joaquin Sepulveda of Glendora.
Sepulveda died from his injuries February 2 surrounded by family and friends, said a family member who did not want to be identified.
Calhoun was not aware that Sepulveda died from his injuries until his March 4 court appearance, police said.
Both Sepulveda and Calhoun were westbound on Foothill Boulevard approaching Galanto Avenue in December. Sepulveda slowed down to turn right onto Galanto when Calhoun in his Nissan Pathfinder rear-ended the Harley Davidson Sepulveda was on, said Lt. Matt Williams of Glendora Police.
According to family, Sepulveda retired from his job October 31, 2015 as a worker with the Los Angeles County Department of Park and Recreation.
“Anytime we respond to a preventable accident it is tragic. My thoughts are with the victims’ family during this time, and I’d just like to remind people to please not drink and drive,” Celello said.
Calhoun’s arraignment has been continued to April 19.
