In New Jersey, the intersection of public safety and justice is a critical area of focus, especially when tragic incidents involving impaired driving occur. A recent case unfolding in the Garden State tragically highlights the severe consequences of operating a vehicle under the influence: the charges against Raul Luna-Perez, who is facing two counts of Vehicular Homicide and Assault by Auto.
The Gravity of Vehicular Homicide
The incident involving Raul Luna-Perez, which took place in Lakewood on July 27, 2025, sent shockwaves through the community. Authorities allege that Luna-Perez, while driving under the influence, crossed into oncoming traffic, resulting in a head-on collision that tragically claimed the lives of a mother and her 11-year-old daughter. Another child was reportedly hospitalized with injuries. These charges, Vehicular Homicide (also known as Death by Auto or Vessel) and Assault by Auto, are among the most serious criminal offenses in New Jersey, carrying profound legal and personal ramifications.
Under New Jersey law, vehicular homicide is typically prosecuted as a second-degree indictable crime, meaning a felony. A conviction for a second-degree crime can lead to a state prison sentence of 5 to 10 years and a fine of up to $150,000. However, if the incident occurred while the defendant was driving under the influence (DUI/DWI), as is alleged in this case, the severity of the charge can elevate to a first-degree crime. A first-degree conviction carries a far more stringent sentence, ranging from 10 to 20 years in state prison and potentially up to a $200,000 fine.
A key element the prosecution must prove in a vehicular homicide case is that the defendant caused the death by driving “recklessly.” In New Jersey, driving while intoxicated automatically creates an inference of reckless driving. This means that if a person causes a fatal accident while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they are presumed to have been driving recklessly in the eyes of the law, making it a critical component of the charges.
Adding another layer of severity, both first and second-degree vehicular homicide convictions often fall under New Jersey’s No Early Release Act (NERA). This statute mandates that defendants serve 85% of their imposed sentence before becoming eligible for parole, emphasizing the state’s stringent stance on such offenses. Beyond incarceration, a conviction also leads to extensive license suspensions, potentially ranging from five years to a lifetime ban on driving, along with substantial financial penalties and mandatory participation in alcohol education and rehabilitation programs.
The Broader Impact of Impaired Driving
The tragic outcome of this incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of impaired driving. Beyond the immediate legal repercussions for the accused, these types of accidents leave an indelible mark on victims’ families and entire communities. The ripple effect of such a senseless act extends far and wide, underscoring the vital importance of responsible choices behind the wheel.
New Jersey continues to reinforce its commitment to public safety through strict laws and ongoing enforcement against driving under the influence. The legal system, through cases like this, aims to hold individuals accountable for reckless behavior that endangers lives on our roadways.
For more information on legal matters, public safety, and important cases affecting communities across the state, you can explore the dedicated “Law & Order” section of our website: Explore New Jersey Law & Order.
