MARIO CUNHA

Oreina Alvarez Zarco is another illegal alien criminal given a hand-slap sentence after killing an American — only two years, with one year already served. The woman pleaded guilty to felony hit-and-run and driving without a license in the death of Soledad firefighter Mario Cunha March 13, 2004. The court dropped manslaughter charges for the incident, which occured on the shoulder of Highway 101 while Cunha was battling a vehicle fire.
She had been driving illegally in the U.S. for seven years previous to the accident. According to court records, Zarco struck Cunha with so much force that he was thrown him on top of a fire engine and then onto the shoulder. Zarco stopped her car, checked out the situation and then left the scene of the accident.
"I understand that accidents happen," said Sal Lucido, the victim's cousin. "But the trend here is a disregard for all laws. She was here illegally, she had no license and she hit him and left the scene. Her actions are inexcusable."

Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Soledad Fireman
Governor Schwarzenegger issued the following statement today regarding the death of Mario Cunha, an on-duty fireman with the Soledad Fire Department:

“Each day, firefighters put their lives on the line to protect fellow Californians and our Golden State. Mario showed great courage and commitment, and his noble sacrifice will not be forgotten.”

Cunha, 32, died on March 13, when the Soledad Fire Department responded to a vehicle fire located on northbound 101, in the city of Soledad. Upon arrival, the fire department reported to the CHP that the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames and heavy smoke surrounded the scene. Soon after, a citizen called 911 to report a fireman at the scene of the fire had been struck by a passenger vehicle. Immediately after the collision, the responsible vehicle fled. Cunha was pronounced dead at the scene.

About 30 minutes later, the Gonzales Police Department made an enforcement stop on the responsible driver. The driver is currently charged with vehicular manslaughter and felony hit and run.

Cunha had been a member of the Soledad Fire Department since April 1st, 2002. He was not married and had no children. (Well, Arnold, how about his mom & dad?)

In honor of Cunha, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.