In a harrowing incident just before 10 p.m. last night, the Irvine Police Department, in collaboration with Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) firefighters, responded swiftly to distress calls regarding a vehicle submerged in North Lake. The incident occurred at the convergence of West Yale Loop and East Yale Loop, near the intersection of Yale and Irvine Center Drive.
Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle, identified as a silver Mercedes 4-door sedan, was traveling south on Yale from Irvine Center Drive before careening over the curb and into the lake. OCFA crews, mobilized promptly, discovered the submerged vehicle approximately 30 yards from the water’s edge. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department Dive Team was called in to aid in the ensuing search and recovery operation.
As divers began their search, a horrific discovery unfolded: the lifeless body of the sole occupant and driver, identified as Camilla Megan Mendoza of Long Beach, was found inside the submerged car. Tragically, Ms. Mendoza was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The investigative spotlight now falls on the Irvine Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT), tasked with unraveling the circumstances leading to this fatal collision. The meticulous examination aims to shed light on the events that unfolded at the intersection of Yale and Irvine Center Drive.
In a collaborative effort, OCFA’s swift water rescue team, along with helicopters from Irvine and Huntington Beach police departments, played a crucial role in the recovery operation. The Irvine Police Department urges anyone with pertinent information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Detective Christopher Ostrowski can be reached at 949-724-7047 or via email at costrowski@cityofirvine.org.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic incident, the Irvine Police Department remains committed to uncovering the facts surrounding the accident, providing closure to the affected families, and ensuring the safety of our roadways.
