Overview
- Nicholas Joseph Gutierrez, who pleaded guilty Monday, received an eight-year suspended prison term, five years of probation, and a five-year driving ban.
- He admitted to one count of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and nine counts of reckless driving causing injury.
- The SUV crossed into oncoming lanes during a Nov. 16, 2022 training run in Whittier, striking about 25 of 76 recruits and leaving 10 with serious injuries.
- Alejandro Martinez-Inzunza, 27, later died from his injuries in July 2023, according to prosecutors.
- Detectives reported no evidence of intent and said Gutierrez likely fell asleep, countering deputies’ early claims of an intentional act; if he violates probation, the suspended term can be imposed.