For Immediate Release

September 7, 2023
Case #23-063138

MOTHER ARRESTED FOR VEHICULAR MANSLAUGHTER

CORONA, CA– On August 22^nd, 2023, at 7:55 A.M., Corona Police officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of Sallie Jeffreys Way regarding a vehicle vs. pedestrian injury traffic collision. Upon arrival, officers discovered that the pedestrian was six-year-old Duner Larson from Corona. Paramedics transported him to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

The investigation revealed that Duner’s mother, 42-year-old Corona resident Melissa Damron, locked him out of the vehicle before she drove away from their residence.  Duner chased after the vehicle and attempted to open her car door.  Melissa continued driving, and Duner fell into the roadway, where he was run over by the car.  Evidence showed Melissa knew Duner was close enough to the vehicle to present a hazard, and she drove with gross negligence, causing her son's death.  Alcohol or drugs do not appear to be a factor in this tragic incident.

On September 7^th, 2023, Melissa was arrested for vehicular manslaughter and child endangerment, causing death.  She posted $50,000 bail and was released from custody.  This investigation has been forwarded to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

We understand this is a traumatic incident that affects not only the involved family but the community as well.  Trauma Intervention volunteers responded to the scene and the hospital to provide counseling resources.  If you are affected by this tragedy or are wondering how to discuss this incident with young children, please visit https://www.tipnational.org.  

If you have any information regarding the collision, please contact Officer Jake Westall at (951) 817-5784 or via email at Jacob.Westall@CoronaCA.gov.

About the City of Corona: Corona is a vibrant, culturally diverse community located in the heart of Southern California at the junction of the 91 and 15 freeways with a population of more than 160,000 residents. For more information regarding the City of Corona, visit www.CoronaCA.gov.

Media Contact
Corporal Tobias Kouroubacalis
Public Information Officer
951-817-5783
Tobias.Kouroubacalis@CoronaCA.gov‍