SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. — Valentino Amil, 31, is facing murder charges after allegedly killing 74-year-old Dannielle Spillman on April 13 in San Francisco. The incident occurred when Amil’s Mercedes-Benz E350 was partially blocking the sidewalk as he exited a Chevron gas station at Mission Street and South Van Ness Avenue.
The Fatal Encounter
According to prosecutors, Amil had just refueled his car when he stopped on the sidewalk while attempting to merge into traffic. As Spillman walked along the sidewalk, she reportedly took issue with the Mercedes blocking her path and walked up to the car. The two exchanged words, and Spillman attempted to walk around the vehicle.
Surveillance footage shows Spillman spilling liquid from a water bottle onto the hood of Amil’s car as she walked in front of it. Amil allegedly reacted by immediately accelerating, knocking Spillman onto the car’s hood. After driving several feet, the victim slid off the hood and fell in front of the car, where Amil allegedly ran over her and drove away without stopping.
Death and Arrest
Spillman was pronounced dead at the scene within 10 minutes of the incident. Amil fled with his wife and two children in the car but was later arrested by San Francisco police. He is facing murder charges, including the use of a deadly weapon (automobile), and felony leaving the scene of an accident.
Defense and Family Statements
Amil’s wife, who remains anonymous, defended him to Fox KTVU, stating, “My husband is not a villain,” and expressed her distress over the situation. Amil’s father also expressed support, calling the incident an accident that “steered into a direction it should not have.”
During Amil’s first court appearance, his defense attorney argued that Amil was attempting to protect his family from Spillman. Amil had his 5-month-old son and 11-year-old daughter in the car and feared for their safety.
Prosecutors’ Allegations
Prosecutors, however, maintain that Amil’s actions were intentional. The surveillance video allegedly shows Amil running over Spillman’s body after she fell off the hood. Prosecutors argue that his actions were deliberate, leading to the murder charge.
Court Proceedings
Amil has been ordered held without bail and is set to return to court on May 6 for a preliminary hearing.
