California assemblywoman Wendy Carrillo blames sneeze after alleged DUI crash

California lawmaker Wendy Carrillo was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after crashing her car in Los Angeles, claiming she lost control of the vehicle when she sneezed.

California lawmaker Wendy Carrillo was taken into custody in Los Angeles after being involved in a car accident under suspicion of driving under the influence. According to Carrillo, she lost control of her vehicle when she sneezed. The incident occurred on Monterey Road near Montecito Heights shortly after midnight. A witness at the scene reported hearing a loud noise and then seeing Carrillo's car with its airbags deployed. The witness approached the 43-year-old assemblywoman and discovered that she had crashed into a parked vehicle, which subsequently hit his own car.

The witness described Carrillo as having slurred speech and appearing disoriented. Concerned for her well-being, he called 911. When officers arrived, they conducted a sobriety test on Carrillo. In a video obtained by ABC, it can be seen that she loses her balance and nearly falls to the ground during the test. She attempts to explain the cause of the accident, attributing it to a sneeze. However, her explanation does not prevent her from being arrested.

Carrillo, who represents parts of northeastern and east Los Angeles, was booked around 4 a.m. on charges of driving under the influence and being involved in a traffic collision with a high blood-alcohol count. She is also one of several Democrats vying to unseat Los Angeles City Council member Kevin de León, who has faced controversy after audio leaked of him making what appeared to be racist comments.

In a statement released on Friday, Carrillo acknowledged crashing into parked vehicles but did not address whether she was under the influence at the time. She expressed her understanding of the higher standard expected of public servants and accepted responsibility for her actions. Carrillo apologized to her family, constituents, colleagues, and staff for any actions that fell short of expectations. She also stated her intention to seek the necessary help and support.