Former LAPD Officer Edgar Verduzco Sentenced to 15 Years to Life After Pleading Guilty in Fatal DUI Crash
While off-duty, Verduzco was driving northbound on the 605 Freeway in his 2016 Chevrolet Camaro at approximately 150 mph, under the influence of alcohol. He struck two vehicles:
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First vehicle: Carried Mario (60), Maribel (52), and their 19‑year‑old son Oscar—their vehicle hit the center divider, burst into flames, and all three died on impact. Oscar, a student at UC Riverside, was days away from turning 20.
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Second vehicle: A mother and her baby suffered only minor injuries
🎯 Legal Proceedings and Outcome
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Charges: Verduzco pleaded guilty on April 11, 2025, to:
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Three counts of second-degree murder
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One count of DUI causing injury
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One count of DUI with BAC ≥0.08% causing injury
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Sentencing: On July 18, 2025, he received:
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Two concurrent 15‑to‑life sentences for murder
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One three-year sentence (served concurrently) for DUI causing injury
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🗣 Statements & Reactions
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DA Nathan J. Hochman commented:
“Mr. Verduzco knew the risks of driving under the influence, but his decision was fueled by recklessness and careless disregard for others… driving after consuming alcohol is not a mistake—it is a choice”
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Family Response: The Davila family lost a mother, father, and son in an instant. Oscar’s siblings and their community expressed enduring grief, emphasizing that forgiveness may come, but the “profound grief” remains
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Verduzco’s Statement: During sentencing, he expressed remorse:
“I know there are no words that can truly make this right… I promise I will always keep their memory alive.”
🔔 Notable Context
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Irony in Leadership: Hours before the crash, Verduzco shared social media content with the hashtag #DontDrinkAndDrive, highlighting the tragic irony of his actions
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Prior Oversight: As a veteran LAPD officer, Verduzco was expected to uphold the law. His negligence highlights a devastating breach of duty.
🕊️ In Memoriam
This horrific incident serves as a stark reminder of the irreversible consequences of driving under the influence and at excessive speeds. The Davila family—three lives lost in a fiery freeway wreck—now faces a lifelong absence. The former officer’s guilty plea and sentencing mark a measure of justice, but for many, the loss remains immeasurable.