Apple Employee Charged With Murder After Fatal Cupertino Crash

A 38-year-old Apple employee has been charged with murder in connection with a crash near the company’s Apple Park headquarters in Cupertino that killed a 2-year-old girl. Riley Kathryn Howard died after the November 6 collision, despite lifesaving efforts by first responders.

Prosecutors allege Eric Chen Su drove a Toyota Camry into the rear of a Chevrolet Trax carrying Riley and her babysitter. The child and babysitter suffered severe injuries; Su, who was alone in his car, had minor injuries and was treated at a hospital before being released.

The Chevrolet caught fire after the collision. Witnesses said bystanders helped get Riley and the babysitter out. Investigators allege Su did not brake before the crash. A deputy district attorney said Su’s speedometer appeared to have stopped at 100 mph at the time of impact, and said murder was the appropriate charge.

Su was taken into custody on November 6, first facing an allegation of gross vehicular manslaughter. His charges were upgraded on November 10, when he appeared in court and was charged with murder and assault with a deadly weapon. He remains in custody and has not entered a plea.

The investigation is continuing, and officials are seeking information from the public, asking witnesses to reach the sheriff’s office. A community fundraiser has been set up to support Riley’s family. Su is scheduled to return to court on November 30.