Judge Denies Resentencing in Fatal DUI Crash [Los Angeles, CA]

Los Angeles, CA (May 23, 2025)- Judge Denies Resentencing in Fatal DUI Crash: A three-justice panel of California’s 2nd District Court of Appeal has refused to reconsider the sentence of Arsen Panasian, who is currently serving a 30-years-to-life term for a drunk-driving collision that claimed the lives of Alfred and Alma Chacon in June 2015. In its Wednesday decision, the appellate court affirmed the Los Angeles County Superior Court’s denial of Panasian’s petition for resentencing, closing the door on his attempt to reduce the punishment for his devastating actions.

The tragic crash occurred on the evening of June 20, 2015, when Panasian, then 41, ran a red light at the intersection of Branford Street and Dorrington Place in Arleta. His Chevrolet Astro van slammed into the couple’s Toyota Camry as they returned home from a birthday celebration, instantly killing both Alfred, 62, and his wife, Alma. First responders pronounced the victims dead at the scene, and shockwaves rippled through the community as details of the crash emerged.

During his December 2016 trial, prosecutors presented evidence that Panasian’s blood-alcohol content was 0.23 percent—nearly three times the legal limit—underscoring the extreme level of his intoxication. Furthermore, the court heard that Panasian had prior convictions in 2001 and 2006 for driving with a blood-alcohol content over 0.08 percent.

Based on these facts, a jury found him guilty of two counts each of second-degree murder and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. The Superior Court subsequently imposed a 30-years-to-life term, reflecting both the severity of the offense and his history of alcohol-related driving violations.

At Text Kevin Accident Attorneys by Crockett Law, we recognize that no legal outcome can truly reverse the pain suffered by the Chacon family. However, pursuing full and fair compensation is crucial to help survivors cope with the financial and emotional burdens left in the wreckage’s wake.

Wrongful death claims can secure damages for funeral and burial expenses, medical costs incurred before the victims’ passing, and loss of financial support. Additional compensation may cover loss of consortium—recognizing the deep personal relationship destroyed by this tragedy—as well as pain and suffering endured by the victims’ loved ones. Punitive damages are sometimes available to punish egregious misconduct and deter future reckless behavior.

We at Text Kevin Accident Attorneys by Crockett Law will guide you through every step of the legal process. Our team begins by conducting a thorough investigation, gathering police reports, witness statements, and expert testimony to build a compelling case.

We handle all communications with insurance companies and opposing counsel so you can focus on healing and supporting one another. If negotiations fail to yield a fair settlement, our seasoned trial attorneys are prepared to advocate passionately on your behalf in court. We operate on a contingency-fee basis, meaning there is no upfront cost—you owe us nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

The appeals court’s recent decision reinforces that, in California, those who choose to drive while heavily intoxicated must face the full consequences of their actions, especially when lives are lost. Although Arsen Panasian’s request for a reduced sentence has been denied, the legal journey for the Chacon family continues through civil avenues for restitution. By holding negligent drivers accountable both criminally and financially, we honor the memory of Alfred and Alma and strive to prevent future tragedies on our roads.

Our law firm extends our deepest sympathies to the friends and family of the victims who are mourning the loss of their loved ones. It’s important to have experienced Wrongful death accident lawyers on your side when losing a loved one in a car accident. Call us at 1-888-965-3827 for a free and confidential case evaluation. You can reach us 24 hours a day and 7 days a week by phone, text, and online chat. For a one-on-one consultation, you are free to visit our office.

Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Please notify Crockett Law Group for corrections if you identify any inaccuracies. Posts will be removed upon request.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the actual scene of the accident.

Source: MY NEWS LA