Former Saipan resident arrested for alleged vehicular homicide

Posted on Jun 17 2014

Tapua’lalupe

Former Saipan resident Luka I. Tapua’lalupe allegedly drove a vehicle while he was intoxicated and hit a Chevrolet Impala, killing its driver in Salmon Creek in Vancouver, Washington.

Tapua’lalupe, 30, was arrested that same day on charges of vehicular homicide, vehicular assault, and felony hit and run, according to The Columbian newspaper.

Tapua’lalupe was taken last week to the Clark County Superior Court. A judge imposed a $100,000 cash bail for his temporary release. His arraignment will be on June 20, 2014.

After his vehicle hit the Chevrolet Impala, the suspect allegedly fled the scene on foot when he saw that the driver was unresponsive. The female passenger of the victim reportedly sustained serious injuries.

Tapua’lalupe’s driver’s license was also found suspended.

Ferdie De La Torre | Reporter

Ferdie Ponce de la Torre is a senior reporter of Saipan Tribune. He has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and has covered all news beats in the CNMI. He is a recipient of the CNMI Supreme Court Justice Award. Contact him at ferdie_delatorre@Saipantribune.com

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