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Democratic National Convention
Two Oahu Families Grieve After Fatal Crash Print E-mail
Written by Tina Chau - tchau@kgmb9.com   
May 16, 2008 09:57 PM

 
Family and close friends describe Koa Paka Miles as a loving child.

"My boy is almost his age, so it's like one of my sons," said Shad Loa, a friend of the Miles family.

A mangled metal mess is what's left of the car the 3-year-old was riding in with his family, when a black Chevy, driven by 25-year old Sanford Valdez, hit a guard rail, veered into their lane and crashed into them.

The impact sent Koa Paka flying out of the car still strapped in his booster seat. The four others in the car suffered serious injuries but Koa Paka died.

A memorial of flowers and balloons is set-up where the young boy landed. It's right in front of Fred Calleon's house. He was one of the first people to see the toddler after the collision.

"I could see two legs underneath the car seat, " Calleon said, "and I thought it was a doll but I lifted it up and I saw the baby."

About 50 feet away is another memorial for Valdez, who leaves behind two young boys. This is where he landed after his truck hit a wall, went airborne, and came down on top of another car.

Police said Valdez wasn't wearing a seatbelt and died at the scene. His girlfriend was pinned inside the truck and pried free by the jaws of life. She suffered minor injuries.

Police said Valdez was speeding and driving drunk; a deadly combination that claimed his life and Koa Paka's.

"This just really hit me real hard," said Loa, "it's like my close family."

 



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Last Updated ( May 19, 2008 03:11 AM )
 

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