Doctor sentenced in hit-and-run death of California woman
By Ana Torrea
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FRESNO, California (KFSN) — A Fresno County judge sentenced a Tuolumne County cardiologist Wednesday to eight months in jail for a deadly hit-and-run crash that killed an aspiring nurse from Reedley.
Dr. James Comazzi was taken into custody in a Fresno County courtroom as loved ones of Juliana Ramos delivered emotional statements about the lasting impact of her death. Ramos was killed five years ago, just two days before her birthday, leaving behind three children.
In court, Ramos’ family described the loss as devastating.
“My grandma lost her daughter, my mom, aunts, and uncles lost her sister. My cousin lost an aunt and I lost a best friend. But most importantly, her kids lost their mother at a very young age,” said Ivette Lopez, Ramos’ niece.
Comazzi also addressed the court and Ramos’ family, acknowledging the harm caused by his actions.
“No words can undo the past or fix the profound brokenness caused by my actions,” Comazzi said.
The incident occurred in February 2021 when Ramos had pulled over near Manning Avenue to help a crash victim. According to the California Highway Patrol, she was struck and killed. Authorities said the driver got out of the car briefly before getting back in and leaving the scene.
“What kind of doctor in any specialty does that? He managed to get away with it for eight months. Did he have any remorse? Did he think about the pain he had caused for my family?” Lopez said.
Investigators later identified Comazzi on Sonora through an anonymous tip after a months-long search.
During sentencing, Fresno County Superior Court Judge Geoffrey D. Wilson noted that the case could have been handled differently had the driver remained at the scene.
“Had he stuck around at that point, had he stayed, this case at all, would’ve been brought as a misdemeanor,” Wilson said.
Comazzi previously pleaded no contest in March to felony hit-and-run and misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter charges. On Wednesday, Wilson sentenced him to eight months in custody.
“You are committed to the custody of the sheriff for eight months. With credit for two conduct credits,” Wilson said.
Despite the sentencing, Ramos’ family said the punishment does not match the magnitude of their loss.
“I believe that Mr. Comazzi does not deserve the sentence of probation with up to a year in jail. That decision was set to be based on his age and lack of criminal record. But what about Juli? Did her age not matter? She had no criminal record. She was going to school to become a CNA,” Lopez said.
Once released from custody, Comazzi will be placed on probation and will be required to check in with a probation officer.
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