BMW

Unlicensed Driver May Have Been Under the Influence at Time of Fatal Wreck

An unlicensed driver who crashed while speeding down the streets of Santa Ana early Saturday was believed to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the fatal wreck, police said.

The black 2001 BMW 325i was traveling faster than 80 miles per hour on 1st Street near the 5 Freeway before it crashed into a concrete barrier of the freeway offramp, according to a news release from the Santa Ana Police Department.

The crash occurred around 2 a.m.

Two witnesses told investigators that the speeding sports car ran red light prior to the crash. Authorities said the speedometer was stuck at 82 miles per hour after impact.

Firefighters had to rescue the driver using heavy equipment. The passenger -- identified by the coroner’s office as 21-year-old Bryan Meza of Rancho Santa Margarita -- was pronounced dead at the scene, officials said.

Officials said the driver was unlicensed and has a history of speeding violations. Charges against the driver were pending.

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