March 21, 2003

DRAG RACING SUSPECT ARRESTED

On March 21^st, 2003 at approximately 11:54 a.m, members of the Lodi Police Departments Major Accident Investigations Team, served an arrest warrant in the 300 block of E. Walnut St. and took Carlos Paz into custody for 2^nd Degree Murder.  This arrest was in relation to an October 8^th, 2002 drag racing incident which led to a collision and the eventual death of 18 yr. old Rafael Leyva.

On October 8^th, 2002 at approximately 9:55 p.m., Officers from the Lodi Police Department responded to the 200 block of South Ham Lane. regarding a traffic collision.  Due to the severity of the collision, officers determined that the Major Accident Investigations Team (M.A.I.T) should be called to handle the investigation.

On March 4th, 2003, members of M.A.I.T were notified that one of the involved parties, 18 yr. old Rafael Levya, had died from head injuries sustained in the collision.  With this information, investigators obtained an arrest warrant for 19 yr. old Carlos Paz who was subsequently arrested and booked at the Lodi City Jail on charges of 2^nd Degree Murder for his involvement in the collision. 

Carlos Paz is currently being held at the Lodi City Jail and his bail has been set at $1,000,000.00.

For further information please feel free to contact Public Information Officer Gary Fauth @ 209-333-6727 or Traffic Officer Chuck Fromm @ 209-333-6800 ext. 2563.