Fatal Pursuit Crash
A 43-year-old Orange County man is facing more than 26 years in prison after stealing Legos and leading police in a high-speed chase that ultimately left an innocent 67-year-old woman dead, officials announced Monday.
The Incident
The tragic incident began at an Albertson’s grocery store in Fullerton where a plainclothes police officer spotted the suspect, Anaheim resident Anthony Michael Hanzal, stuffing boxes of Legos into a bag and leaving the store without paying. The officer followed Hanzal in his car and requested a marked patrol cruiser make a traffic stop.
The Chase
When the uniformed police officer tried to pull the suspected thief over, Hanzal made a quick right turn on Brookhurst Road and sped off. He rearended a vehicle sitting at a stoplight at Brookhurst Road and Orangethorpe Avenue before getting on the westbound 91 Freeway. He exited at Knott Avenue in Buena Park where he hit speeds of 90 miles per hour as officers trailed him into the city of La Palma.
The Crash
At La Palma Avenue and Moody Street, Hanzal is accused of running a redlight and violently crashing into a blue BMW, instantly killing Marianne Casey, a resident of La Palma, who was behind the wheel. A nearby security camera, as well as another driver’s dashcam captured the moment of impact.
Charges and Sentence
Hanzal has been formally charged with felony gross vehicle manslaughter while intoxicated under the influence of drugs, a felony count of evading a peace officer causing death, and a felony count of petty theft with two prior convictions. If convicted as charged, Hanzal faces up to 26 years and four months in state prison. He is being held without bail and his next court appearance is scheduled for January 26 at the North Justice Center in Fullerton.
Conclusion
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless behavior and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions. The family of Marianne Casey will never be the same, and it is only fitting that Anthony Michael Hanzal faces the full weight of the law for his role in her death.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the motive behind the theft of Legos?
A: The motive behind the theft of Legos was not specified in the report.
Q: Was Hanzal under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident?
A: Yes, according to the report, Hanzal was under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident.
Q: How many years does Hanzal face in prison if convicted as charged?
A: Hanzal faces up to 26 years and four months in state prison if convicted as charged.
Q: What is the next court appearance for Hanzal?
A: Hanzal’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 26 at the North Justice Center in Fullerton.
