Driver in Fatal Crash on Foothill Convicted of Manslaughter

The driver involved in a in front of the in March of last year was convicted of misdemeanor manslaughter Wednesday in a Citrus courthouse.

According to Cpt. Tim Staab of the Glendora Police Department, Paule Ford, 81, pleaded guilty to the charges before a jury was to be picked for her trial.

Ford was given probation, a license suspension and ordered to pay restitution to the victim’s family.

Ola May Lyness, 86, was traveling west on Foothill Boulevard when her Buick Regal was struck by the Chevrolet Malibu driven by Ford as she was pulling out of the La Fetra Center March 25, 2011.

Lyness went into full cardiac arrest immediately after impact. When officers arrived at the scene, Lyness’ car was front-first against a wall. Although the responding officer managed to get Lyness’ heart beating again with CPR, she later died at Foothill Presbyterian Hospital.

Ford did not require hospitalization following the accident.

According to Staab, Ford was convicted of manslaughter because “although her actions weren’t deliberate, her negligence resulted in someone’s death.”

“There was absolutely no evidence of speeding,” said Staab. “The judge determined the fault in this accident rested on the shoulders of [Ford].”