July 24, 2008

INTOXICATION MANSLAUGHTER
Police have charged a Midland man with Intoxication Manslaughter and Intoxication Assault following g and accident on July 23, 2008. At approximately 9:34 p.m., police were called to the 1500 block of Baird in reference to an accident. Preliminary investigations reveal that four people were headed westbound on Hicks, two adults on foot and two toddlers in one stroller. A 2001 red Dodge 4x4 pickup was traveling eastbound on Hicks and struck the pedestrians. The truck left the scene of the accident. 22-year-old Ashley Molina was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other persons were taken to Midland Memorial by private vehicle. A 7-month-old male, Anthony Sanchez, was flown to Lubbock for treatment. He is the son of the deceased. A 26-year-old female and her 9-month-old daughter were treated and released. At approximately 10:20 p.m., police, while investigating the scene, were contacted by a witness in reference to the location of the truck. When officers arrived at 1613 S. Terrell, they discovered the suspect truck parked in the driveway of the residence. There was evidence of the accident linked to the truck. The driver, 51-year-old Carlos Baeza (11-27-56), was arrested for Intoxication Manslaughter and Intoxication Assault. Investigators believe Baeza was intoxicated at the time of the accident. A blood sample was taken. The investigation continues.