Fresno woman accused of driving high on pot, killing bicyclist enters plea
A Fresno woman who is accused of driving while under the influence of marijuana and killing a bicyclist pleaded not guilty in Fresno County Superior Court on Monday.
Korina Aimee Machuca, 23, is charged with two felonies: gross vehicular homicide while intoxicated and driving under the influence of a drug while intoxicated.
Machuca was arrested on Oct. 22 by the California Highway Patrol after she allegedly struck bicyclist David Garcia, 69, on Cherry Avenue south of North Avenue at about 9 p.m.
Garcia was traveling northbound in front of Machuca’s Altima when he was struck from behind by Machuca, according to a CHP report. He died at the scene. After the impact, the Altima veered off the roadway and struck a chain link fence.
A CHP officer reported detecting the smell of marijuana from Machuca’s car after the crash.
Prosecuting the case is Steven Ueltzen.
Mark Coleman, Machuca’s lawyer, said an initial blood test showed Machuca had marijuana in her system but he said it had already metabolized in her system.
“It was not affecting her at the time,” Coleman said. “It is a difficult issue because I don’t think there is a consensus on how much is too much.”
At the time of the crash, Machuca was working at a packaging delivery warehouse.
If she is found guilty on all charges, she faces more than 10 years in prison. Her next court appearance is Dec. 15 in Department 30.
Machuca remains out of custody after posting a $125,500 bond.
