On Friday, April 05, 2019, at approximately 9:04 PM, a solo vehicle collision with injuries was reported to 9-1-1, having occurred in the 4000 block of Novato Boulevard, west of Stafford Lake in unincorporated Novato.   Reportedly the vehicle had been driving eastbound and heard to be travelling at a high rate of speed followed by the sounds of a sudden impact-collision.  First Responders were immediately dispatched to the area and arrived on the scene, to discover a solo-vehicle had collided with a tree.  The vehicle sustained catastrophic damage and two persons were located lifeless, trapped inside the pick-up truck style vehicle.  The subjects required extensive extrication from the truck and suffered significant blunt traumatic injuries as a result of the collision.  The subjects were pronounced deceased on the scene without additional resuscitative aid provided.  Mr. Nunes appeared to have been the restrained front seat passenger and Mr. Corda appeared to be the unrestrained driver of the vehicle.  For reasons unknown and remain under investigation, the vehicle left the roadway and collided with a tree.  Preliminary investigation and evidence located at the scene are suggestive alcohol and excessive speed may be contributing factors in this incident.

The decedents have been positively identified as:

Nickolas Joseph NUNES, a 32-year-old male from Novato, CA.

Joseph Alfred CORDA, a 42-year-old male from Novato, CA.

A forensic post mortem examination and toxicology testing have been scheduled for this week.  The cause and manner of death will be pending the conclusion of the investigation being completed by the California Highway Patrol - Marin Office, and the Marin County Sheriff’s Office - Coroner Division.  No further information will be released by the Coroner Division at this time, as this is an active and ongoing investigation.  Any further questions regarding the incident should be directed to the California Highway Patrol - Marin Office.

The Marin County Sheriff’s Office and personnel of the Coroner Division offers our best wishes and condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Nunes and Mr. Corda.

CONTACT

Roger G. Fielding

Chief Deputy Coroner

415-473-6043