In a harrowing turn of events on December 8, 2023, Dene Blakely, 39, finds herself at the center of a legal storm after allegedly running over a woman whom she believed had stolen a package from her residence. The victim succumbed to her injuries on December 23, prompting prosecutors to charge Blakely with murder.
The incident unfolded at approximately 2:30 p.m. in the 1100 block of Broadway Avenue in San Pablo. Responding to reports of a collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian, officers discovered a 60-year-old woman with severe injuries. Rushed to the hospital in critical condition, the victim underwent surgery in a desperate attempt to address the extensive harm inflicted during the intentional collision.
According to a press release from the San Pablo Police Department, the confrontation between Blakely and the victim arose from a heated argument related to the theft of packages. Allegedly recognizing the victim as someone who had previously stolen from her, Blakely’s dispute with the woman escalated, resulting in what authorities are characterizing as “an intentional act of assault.”
More Read
Although the press release did not confirm whether the victim had indeed stolen any packages or if it was a case of mistaken identity, Blakely was promptly arrested at the scene. Initially charged with attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon on December 12 by the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, the charges were later elevated to murder following the victim’s death on December 23.
The identity of the victim remains undisclosed by the police. In the wake of the upgraded charges, a judge arraigned Blakely, setting a $1 million bond. Currently incarcerated at the Contra Costa County Jail, Blakely’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 30.
This tragic incident raises pressing questions about the potential consequences when confrontations escalate to acts of violence in addressing perceived wrongs. As the legal process unfolds, it is essential for the public to bear in mind that all individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty.
As the community closely follows this case, the motivations behind the incident and the ensuing judicial proceedings will determine Dene Blakely’s fate in the eyes of the law.
