Well-Known Solana Beach Surfer Charged with DUI and Manslaughter
A renowned big-wave surfer who was allegedly speeding and driving under the influence has been charged after a June 6th fatal crash that killed his 24 year old passenger.
Milton Willis 52, a long time resident of Solana Beach has been charged with gross vehicular manslaughter and two counts of felony DUI. A $500,000 arrest warrant has been issued. If Willis is convicted of manslaughter he could be facing up to 11 years and eight months in prison according to Steve Walker, a spokesman for the District Attorney’s Office.
The fatal crash occurred in the early morning hour of 1:40am on June 6th, 2008 at Coast Boulevard and 20th Street in Del Mar. Willis was driving his passenger, Bradley Dillahunty’s Toyota Avalon when he lost control of the vehicle. While traveling more than 65 mph in a 25-mph zone, Willis hit a parked car, slammed into a palm tree, spun around hitting another parked car witnesses say.
Bradley Dillahunty of Laguna Beach died on impact. He was wearing his seatbelt. Willis was partially ejected from his seat. Police officers who arrived at the scene said that Willis “had the odor of alcohol on him.” The pro surfer was taken to Scripps Memorial Hospital.
Willis and his Twin brother Michael were famous for mastering very large and dangerous waves in Hawaii in the 1970’s. The two brothers currently run a surfing school in Solana Beach. They have also written several instructional and inspirational books
Driving Under The Influence in San Diego County
Vehicular manslaughter charges and DUI manslaughter charges carry more severe sentences than a typical DUI. In California, It is unlawful for any person to drive while under the influence of any drug or alcohol.
Web Related Resources
Big-wave surfer charged with fatal Del Mar crash Sign on San Diego
If you have been arrested and charged with driving under the influence, hiring an experienced San Diego DUI Attorney can help you. San Diego DUI Attorney Victor Orsatti of the San Diego Law Center has many years of experience and success handling all types of DUI cases
