Suspect freed in deadly Palm Springs crash

A 21-year-old suspected drunken driver involved in a crash that killed a Palm Springs man is out of custody while authorities continue investigating to determine what, if any, charges should be filed, police said Wednesday.

Erwin Manolo Monterroso suffered moderate injuries in the Saturday morning crash and was treated at a local hospital before being arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence causing injuries, committing a felony while free on bail and violating probation, Palm Springs police Lt. Mike Kovaleff said.

He was being held in lieu of $250,000 bail and had been scheduled to appear in court Wednesday, but he was instead set free Tuesday while the probe continues.

“The investigation into this case is ongoing and the case will be submitted to the District Attorney’s Office pending additional information and evidence,” Kovaleff said.

On Monday, police said they were trying to track down a witness to the 1:52 a.m. crash at the intersection of Sunrise Way and Tahquitz Canyon Way. According to authorities, a light green 2003 Toyota Prius traveling north on Sunrise Way was hit broadside by an eastbound white 2006 Mazda pickup truck driven by Monterroso.

The driver of the Prius, 58-year-old Homayon Moaven, was pronounced dead at the scene. A small dog in the Prius was taken to an emergency animal hospital for treatment.

Police received information that there was at least one witness to the crash, who left the scene without being interviewed, the lieutenant said.