California Crime Scene Technician Hit, Killed
HUGHSON, Calif. -- A crime scene technician with the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Department has died after she was hit by a Turlock Police dispatcher in her personal car, Friday morning while gathering evidence at a crime scene.
Mary Donahou was a 9-year veteran of the department and has a 12-year-old son.
"Our hearts are heavy, our thoughts and prayers are with the family," said Sheriff Adam Christianson during a press conference.
This happened in the town of Hughson, on Santa Fe Avenue near 7th Street, around 6:30 a.m. Part of Santa Fe Avenue is blocked off while an investigation is underway.
Donahou was gathering evidence at the scene of a shooting, which happened at 4:30 a.m. Friday, when she was struck.
"It does not appear to be a criminal act. It appears to be a tragic accident," says Christianson. The driver, 38-year-old Elizabeth Quiroga, stopped after the crash.
There is also one witness to what happened. Alcohol and drugs are not believed to be factors in the crash.
Donahou's cousin, Derrick Delhart, told FOX40 that she was well-loved and respected.
"Mary loved her job," said Delhart. "She loved serving her community and the community loved her."
Copyright 2011 - KTXL-TV, Sacramento, Calif.
McClatchy-Tribune News Service