Woman could face death penalty after traffic accident in which Vacaville police officer died

A woman who fatally struck a Vacaville police officer with her car has been charged with murder and could face the death penalty, her defense attorney said.

Serena CJ Rodriguez is accused of intentionally driving into Vacaville Police Officer Matthew Bowen on July 11 when he was stopped in another vehicle, the California Highway Patrol said in a news release. Rodriguez allegedly tried to run from the scene of the crash but was caught by bystanders who witnessed the accident. She was initially arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs, but was ultimately charged with murder of a police officer on Monday.

Bowen, 32, died in hospital. He leaves behind his wife, two sons, his parents and his brother.

“We are disappointed that the prosecution has chosen to bring charges that could result in the death penalty for a troubled young woman under these circumstances, and we hope that society will not rush to judgment while the investigation is ongoing,” Rodriguez’s public defender Elena M. D’Agustino said in an email.

According to CBS affiliate KOVR, Rodriguez had previous encounters with police in Placer County and had an outstanding warrant for his arrest at the time of the accident.

In November 2022, prosecutors charged Rodriguez with intentionally flooding her apartment, the outlet reported. About a month later, she was found in jail with a fixed blade, leading to a felony charge, according to the outlet.

Rodriguez is scheduled to appear for her arraignment at the Fairfield Courthouse on Monday at 1:30 p.m.

Bowen’s public memorial service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Tuesday. Vacaville police announced they will livestream the service to the public.