CHESAPEAKE, Va. — The 18-year-old driver involved in a deadly crash on Interstate 664 in the Bowers Hill section of Chesapeake is now charged with involuntary manslaughter.
Virginia State Police (VSP) said Elvis Cruz of Portsmouth was already arrested on numerous traffic-related charges connected to the February 19 crash, including reckless driving and having no valid driver's license.
Investigators said that just before 6 p.m. on that date, a 2000 gray Toyota Solara and a 2008 red Pontiac Vibe were driving southbound on I-664 when they made contact. Both drivers lost control and ran off the roadway.
They both struck the guardrail, causing the Pontiac to overturn. VSP said Cruz was behind the wheel of the Pontiac, and he was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The driver of the Toyota, 19-year-old Lauryn Leonard of Suffolk, died at the scene.
On Thursday, VSP said Cruz was charged with involuntary manslaughter following a meeting with the investigating trooper and the Commonwealth's Attorney.
Cruz remains in custody without bond.