Ramon Castellon : “Driver sentenced for lying to PBSO after fatal accident”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Driver sentenced for lying to PBSO
2. Pedestrian killed by driver’s car lie sentence

A West Palm Beach man has been sentenced to more than 13 years in prison after pleading guilty to charges in a hit-and-run crash that killed a pedestrian. Juan Luis Valladares, 27, faced charges including vehicular homicide, DUI manslaughter, and tampering with evidence in the death of 52-year-old Ramon Castellon. The incident occurred near Forest Hill Boulevard and Military Trail, where Valladares was driving under the influence of alcohol at high speeds. His passenger, Marina Mirabella, was also arrested on related charges. The judge revoked Valladares’ driver’s license for life. Stay updated on this story with criminal justice reporter Julius Whigham II at The Palm Beach Post.

A man from West Palm Beach has been sentenced to more than 13 years in prison after pleading guilty to charges in a hit-and-run crash that resulted in the death of a pedestrian nearly one year ago. The incident took place near Forest Hill Boulevard and Military Trail, where Juan Luis Valladares, 27, struck and killed 52-year-old Ramon Castellon while driving under the influence of alcohol.

**The Incident**

According to prosecutors and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office investigators, Valladares was speeding in his 2023 Dodge Charger, reaching a maximum speed of 106 mph, when he ran a red light at the intersection and struck Castellon. After the crash, Valladares and a female passenger fled the scene, went home to change their clothing, and then falsely reported that their vehicle had been stolen.

**Legal Consequences**

Valladares pleaded guilty to charges of vehicular homicide, DUI manslaughter, leaving the scene of a crash involving death, tampering with evidence, and falsely reporting a crime. Circuit Judge Scott Suskauer imposed concurrent sentences of 13 years and six months on the homicide, manslaughter, and leaving the scene charges, five years on the tampering charge, and 364 days on the false report charge. Additionally, Valladares had his driver’s license revoked for life.

**Accomplice’s Arrest**

Valladares’ passenger, Marina Mirabella, was also arrested on charges of tampering with evidence and giving false information. She has pleaded not guilty to both charges and is scheduled to appear before Judge Suskauer for a hearing on May 22.

**Conclusion**

The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and the severe consequences that can result from such reckless behavior. The sentencing of Juan Luis Valladares sends a strong message about the importance of accountability and responsibility on the road. It is crucial for all individuals to prioritize safety and make responsible choices while behind the wheel to prevent further tragedies like this one.