Driver charged with murder after Cupertino crash kills toddler

A driver involved in a fiery crash in Cupertino last week was charged with murder and assault with a deadly weapon, CBS News Bay Area reported. The crash occurred shortly after noon at the intersection of North Tantau and Pruneridge avenues.

The collision involved a Chevrolet Trax and a Toyota Camry. Authorities found a woman and a child in the Trax with serious injuries. The child, a 2-year-old girl who was properly restrained, later died at the hospital. The woman survived with head and spinal injuries, while the Camry driver had minor injuries.

The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office investigation revealed the Camry was traveling over 90 mph and did not brake before rear-ending the Trax, which was stopped at the intersection. The Camry's speedometer was stuck at 100 mph after the crash.

The driver, identified as a 38-year-old Apple employee, was arrested on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter. He was charged in a Palo Alto courtroom with murder and assault with a deadly weapon. The complaint alleges he inflicted great bodily injury and that the victim was particularly vulnerable.

The crash site is near Apple Park Way, the main road for Apple Inc.'s headquarters. The deputy's statement noted the driver should have known the area is busy with vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians during weekday noon hours.