An Apple employee has been charged with murder after a high-speed car crash near Apple Park Visitor Center in Cupertino, California, killed a two-year-old girl and seriously injured her babysitter. Authorities say the employee, identified as 38-year-old Eric Chen Su, was driving at nearly 100 mph when he struck a vehicle stopped at a red light on November 6.
According to CBS San Francisco, the collision occurred shortly after noon at the intersection of North Tantau Avenue and Pruneridge Avenue, close to Apple’s headquarters. The victim, identified as Riley Howard of San Jose, later died at a hospital despite emergency treatment.
Investigators Say Apple Employee Was Driving Over 90 MPH
Investigators found that Su’s Toyota Camry was traveling at more than 90 mph in a 30 mph zone when it rear-ended a stopped Chevrolet Trax. The impact caused the other vehicle to catch fire, leaving Riley and her babysitter with serious injuries.
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According to the sheriff’s investigation, Su did not apply his brakes before the collision, while his vehicle’s speedometer was reportedly stuck at 100 mph after the crash. The babysitter survived with head and spinal injuries, while Su sustained minor injuries.
Authorities initially arrested Su on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter. However, prosecutors formally charged him with murder and assault with a deadly weapon on November 10.
Su appeared in a Palo Alto courtroom on Tuesday, and his next hearing is scheduled for November 30. The criminal allegations remain unproven.
Apple Responds to Fatal Crash Near Headquarters
Apple addressed the incident in a statement shared with MacRumors, expressing condolences to the victim’s family.
“Our hearts are broken by the tragic accident that happened outside of Apple Park Visitor Center. Our thoughts are with all of those grieving, and we are grateful for the care and support of the first responders.”
Apple has not confirmed whether Su remains employed or has been placed on leave. The incident occurred near the company’s Cupertino campus, and the criminal case remains ongoing as authorities continue examining the circumstances surrounding the collision.
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