Prosecutors have not charged a woman involved in a tragic DUI crash that claimed the life of her 9-year-old niece. As a result, a judge decided to release Christina Sorensen, 63, without bail on Thursday. The incident took place on Saturday at the intersection of Simmons Street and West Ann Road in North Las Vegas, where a Jeep collided with the Corvette Sorensen was driving, resulting in the death of her niece, Sophia Sandoval.
During a hearing on Monday, Justice of the Peace Natalie Tyrrell had initially set bail at $100,000 for Sorensen, along with strict monitoring and a prohibition on driving. However, defense attorney Ryan Helmick argued that these conditions were unwarranted in the absence of formal charges. Chief Justice of the Peace Kalani Hoo agreed on Thursday and allowed Sorensen to be released without any conditions.
The District Attorney’s Office explained that they are still investigating the case and are awaiting the results of Sorensen’s blood analysis to determine if any substances were involved. They emphasized the importance of not rushing to file charges prematurely. Sorensen did consent to a blood draw after the crash, and while a breath test showed no alcohol, she reportedly failed field sobriety tests, leading officers to suspect she was under the influence of narcotics.
Despite the decision to release Sorensen without bail conditions, a new hearing has been scheduled for December 10. She is expected to face charges including driving under the influence resulting in death, reckless driving resulting in death, and child abuse or neglect.
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of driving under the influence and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions. It also highlights the complexities of the legal process and the thorough investigation required before pressing charges in such cases.
As the community mourns the loss of young Sophia Sandoval, it is crucial for authorities to conduct a comprehensive examination of the circumstances surrounding the crash to ensure that justice is served. The upcoming hearing will likely shed more light on the case and determine the next steps in seeking justice for the victim and her family.
