Delray Beach Woman Charged in Fatal Crash That Killed Family
A woman involved in a deadly crash that claimed the lives of a mother, father, and their 10-year-old child has been formally charged. The crash also left the couple’s 2-year-old son without both parents and his older brother.
Dawn Howard, 54, is accused of causing the fatal collision that occurred on July 10. Howard was driving a 2020 Lexus RX350 at high speed on South Military Trail when she approached the intersection with Miner Road. According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) crash report, Howard accelerated to beat a yellow light, colliding with a Volkswagen carrying the family of four. The impact caused Howard’s vehicle to roll over, coming to a stop in the grass.
The crash killed Grechy Almaguer-Perez, 43, Alejandro Felipe Cordoves Rodriguez, 46, and their 10-year-old son. Their 2-year-old child survived but was left without his immediate family.
Howard sustained minor injuries and was transported to Delray Medical Center. At 7:49 p.m., deputies arrived at the hospital to supervise her as she was a suspect in the crash. While there, Howard allegedly became uncooperative, attempting to leave her room despite being instructed to remain due to the ongoing investigation. When a deputy tried to prevent her from leaving, Howard reportedly slapped his wrist.
At the time, the arrest report states that Howard appeared intoxicated, with slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and a strong smell of alcohol. She also allegedly made inappropriate comments to hospital staff. An impairment test revealed that Howard’s blood alcohol content was significantly above the legal limit.
On July 10, Howard was booked on charges of battery on a law enforcement officer. She attended a court hearing Thursday and was issued a $375,000 bond. Her next court appearance is scheduled for next month.
This tragic incident has left a community in mourning, particularly the young survivor who lost his entire family in the crash.