Co-Founder of Grossman Burn Foundation Arrested in Fatal DUI Crash
Co-Founder of Grossman Burn Foundation Arrested in Fatal DUI Crash
Rebecca Grossman, the co-founder of the famous Grossman Burn Foundation, was arrested in connection with a DUI crash in Westlake Village that killed two young brothers. According to CBS Los Angeles, she was arrested after the crash, which occurred the night of Sept. 29 that fatally injured 11-year-old Mark Iskander and his 9-year-old brother, Jacob.
Ongoing Investigation
The boys were walking with their family in a crosswalk at the intersection of Triunfo Canyon Road and Saddle Mountain Drive. One of the parents was able to snatch one of their children off a scooter and push a stroller out of the way, but the two boys were fatally struck. Investigators say Grossman, who is co-founder and chair of the foundation and has received awards for her philanthropy, was under the influence, speeding and took off after the crash.
Her white Mercedes, which had front-end damage, was towed away about a quarter-mile from the crash scene. Grossman was arrested and released on bail. The city of Westlake Village released a statement that they shared with residents regarding concerns about unsafe driving in the area, but have declined to comment further on this incident until the investigation is complete.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family members of Mark and Jacob Iskander for their terrible loss. Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver, in this case, Grossman, was not only speeding and operating under the influence but also left the scene of the crash after striking and killing two children. In addition, she also apparently failed to yield the right of way to pedestrians who were walking in a marked crosswalk. Needless to say, these actions, if the reports are accurate, are all violations of California law.
In cases where negligence and/or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault driver seeking compensation for damages including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love, care and companionship. DUI drivers, in addition to facing criminal charges and penalties, can also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses caused. An experienced Los Angeles DUI victims’ lawyer will be able to advise families in such cases regarding their legal rights and options.
