Sonora, CA…On October 26, 2020, at approximately 6:15 pm, 19-year-old Augustus Matthew Marinovich of Sonora was driving a 2002 Toyota Pickup westbound on Phoenix Lake Road near Bear Cub Drive at a high rate of speed. At that same time, a 33-year-old Female of Sonora was driving a 1996 Suzuki SUV along with her 4 Juvenile passengers eastbound on Phoenix Lake Road, near Bear Cub Drive. Mr. Marinovich lost control of his vehicle and veered into the eastbound lane, striking the Suzuki SUV head on. After the impact, attempts were made to assist the female driver, however she succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
All 4 Juveniles in the vehicle suffered major injuries and were transported by air ambulance to UC Davis Medical Center for treatment. Mr. Marinovich also suffered major injuries and was transported by air ambulance to Memorial Medical Center in Modesto for treatment. During this investigation it was determined Mr. Marinovich was driving while under the influence of an alcoholic beverage and placed under arrest.
Dur to his injuries, he was released to the care of the hospital. Mr. Marinovich is being charged with Felony DUI and Vehicular Manslaughter. This crash is still under investigation and the name of the female driver is being held pending family notification.
Vehicular Manslaughter Charges for 19 Year Old Sonora Man in Death of Sonora Woman added by admin on
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She wasn’t 23, she was in her early 30’s.
It never said she was 23
And her youngest child died this morning. And the other ones are in critical condition. Look what he’s done to this family, it’s to believe that he was driving under the influence of alcohol
I am so sadden for all that knew this young lady
He’s also under age he’s going away for a long time we hope
I need to apologize to the family yesterday I reported that the youngest child had passed away I repeated what was told to me. And I should’ve never done that I should’ve known my fax first said to Melissa‘s family I apologize from the bottom of my heart
Melissa Slawinsky-Patania didnt live a straight life either. She was involved in the murder of Carl Knight in 2008. The public should know that bad things can/ do come full circle. Sad story all the way around. Prayers to both families!