Man Accused of Murder and Arson in High-Speed Police Chase
Background and Charges
Timothy Bradford Cole, a 43-year-old resident of Huntington Beach, has been charged with multiple felony crimes, including murder and arson, according to the Orange County District Attorney’s office. Cole, a documented white supremacist gang member, has a criminal history that includes six prior strikes, which could result in a maximum sentence of 70 years to life plus 48 years and eight months in state prison if convicted.
Incident Details
On a recent day, Cole started a fire at the home of his sister’s fiancé in Fountain Valley using an accelerant, which was quickly put out by a neighbor. Two hours later, he was approached by Fountain Valley police near the site of the suspected arson. Instead of stopping, Cole took off in his vehicle at high speeds, reaching up to 90 miles per hour, and ran a red light before crashing into a BMW X3, killing 25-year-old Hong Ngoc Nguyen from Vietnam and injuring two others in the SUV.
Motivation Behind the Crime
Authorities believe that Cole started the fire at the Fountain Valley home in apparent retaliation for losing custody of his children after his sister called child protective services.
Reaction from the District Attorney
"No one could have predicted that a series of events set in motion by a complete stranger would turn Miss Nguyen’s American vacation into an American nightmare," said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer.
Court Appearance
Cole is scheduled to appear in court on December 20.
Conclusion
The case highlights the devastating consequences of senseless violence and the importance of prioritizing public safety. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of an innocent life and prays for justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What were the charges against Timothy Bradford Cole?
A: Cole was charged with multiple felony crimes, including murder and arson.
Q: What was the motive behind the crime?
A: Authorities believe that Cole started the fire in apparent retaliation for losing custody of his children after his sister called child protective services.
Q: What was the outcome of the high-speed police chase?
A: Cole’s actions resulted in a fatal crash that killed 25-year-old Hong Ngoc Nguyen and injured two others in the SUV.
Q: What is the potential sentence for Timothy Bradford Cole if convicted?
A: Due to his criminal history, which includes six prior strikes, Cole faces a maximum sentence of 70 years to life plus 48 years and eight months in state prison if convicted.
