Chula Vista Woman Pleads Not Guilty in Fatal Hit-and-Run Case
A Chula Vista woman has pleaded not guilty to felony charges stemming from a hit-and-run collision that resulted in the death of a 70-year-old pedestrian. The incident underscores the growing reliance on technology in modern criminal investigations and raises questions about driver accountability.
Monica Armenta, 46, entered a plea of not guilty Wednesday to one count of felony hit-and-run causing death and one count of misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter. The charges relate to the death of Ruizhi You, who was struck by a vehicle on Jan. 11 at approximately 5:30 p.m. near the intersection of North Greensview Drive and Park Meadows Road.
You, who was visiting from China to see her only son, was transported by paramedics to a local hospital, where she tragically succumbed to her injuries, according to the Chula Vista Police Department. Authorities initially faced challenges in identifying the vehicle involved, but a combination of surveillance footage and advanced technology ultimately led to Armenta’s arrest two days later.
Investigators meticulously reviewed surveillance footage from the surrounding area, establishing a connection between the vehicle and its registered owner, Armenta. A key component of the investigation involved the use of Flock Safety automated license plate readers, a network that has become increasingly prevalent in law enforcement efforts. According to a senior official, these readers provided crucial leads in identifying the suspect vehicle.
Upon executing a search warrant at Armenta’s residence, investigators discovered the vehicle with front-end damage consistent with a collision involving a pedestrian. Further investigation revealed potentially incriminating evidence on Armenta’s cell phone. A prosecutor stated that a significant portion of her internet search history had been deleted, with the exception of a news article detailing the hit-and-run incident and searches related to purchasing a new vehicle.
This deletion of search history, coupled with the vehicle damage, has led investigators to believe Armenta attempted to conceal evidence. A network of police surveillance cameras and license plate readers played a critical role in tracking down the suspected driver, as reported by local news outlets.
Armenta was released on $50,000 bail, but with a strict condition: she is prohibited from operating any motor vehicle during the pendency of the case. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities continue to gather evidence as they prepare for trial.
