Man Run Over In Argument Over A Cat, Was Father Of 5

CYPRESS, CA — An Orange County man run over and killed by a driver who thought he was trying to run over a cat, was a loving father of five daughters, his family and prosecutors said Thursday.

According to police, Victor Anthony Luis, 43, was killed Sunday in Cypress by a 20-year-old woman who turned herself into authorities. Hannah Star Esser was arrested and charged Tuesday with one count of murder.

“This action showed a complete disregard for human life,” said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. “The Orange County District Attorney’s Office will ensure that this random act of violence targeting a stranger will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

Luis's family members are grappling with their unexpected loss.

Luis was expecting his first grandchild this fall, his family told NBC Los Angeles.

He "died in his only brother's arms," in front of his home his family said.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the Luis family raise money for funeral expenses.

"On Sunday September 25th, we lost Victor Anthony Luis in a tragic and senseless act of violence," his loved ones wrote. "He was a gentle soul as well as a loving son, father, and brother who did not deserve this. He leaves behind a loving family and 5 daughters."

According to Kimberly Edds, a spokeswoman for the Orange County District Attorney's Office, Esser and Luis got into a conflict about 8:20 p.m. Sunday in the 9700 block of Graham Street, with Esser believing that Victor was trying to run over a cat.

The two got out of their cars and Esser allegedly recorded the confrontation on a smart phone, accusing him of trying to run down the animal, Edds said. Investigators have not yet determined whether Luis was actually attempting to do so.

Esser then got back into her Honda Civic, drove to the end of a cul-de- sac, turned around and ran over Victor, who was still outside of his vehicle, according to Edds.

According to the District Attorney's office, Luis was launched up onto the hood and windshield and flipped several times before he landed in the street. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Esser called police herself and was arrested.

Esser is being held on $1 million bail. She faces up to 25 years to life in prison if convicted.

City News Service contributed to this report.