Gilroy man charged with vehicular manslaughter after striking, killing motorcyclist

A local man accused of vehicular manslaughter for striking and killing a 45-year-old Gilroy motorcyclist in an October traffic accident was arraigned Tuesday in Santa Clara County Superior Court.
Aurelio Maldonado, 43, faces misdemeanor charges stemming from an Oct. 7 wreck on the 2300 block of Pacheco Pass Highway. Maldonado was driving a 2003 GMC Yukon with a trailer in tow when he struck a motorcycle as he made an abrupt turn, according to Gilroy Police Department Sgt. Pedro Espinoza.
Harold Baugher, a 45-year-old Gilroy man, was driving the motorcycle eastbound on Hecker Pass Highway when Maldonado made an “unexpected left turn” in front of him, Espinoza said. Baugher died on Oct. 15, succumbing to his wounds.
Following the collision, the GPD’s Major Accident Investigation Team forwarded the results of their investigation to the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office. A warrant was issued for Maldonado’s arrest on Dec. 9 and he was arrested Dec. 23, Espinoza said.
Police are asking anyone with information to contact GPD Officer Andrew Viale at (408) 846-0350. Those who would prefer to remain anonymous can call We-Tip at 1-800-782-7463.