Las Vegas, NV— Julie Bush, 30, faces a charge of open murder after allegedly running over her boyfriend, Richard Penardo, Jr., 51, in a violent confrontation triggered by the discovery of another woman’s tampons in the trash, according to documents obtained by the 8 News Now Investigators.

Initially, Bush was charged with DUI resulting in substantial bodily harm, domestic battery, attempted murder, and drug possession following her arrest on Friday, May 24. The charges were upgraded to open murder after Penardo succumbed to his injuries on Saturday.

On the afternoon of May 24, police received a call reporting that Bush intentionally ran over a man with a car near Oakey Boulevard and Eastern Avenue in the east valley. A witness reported seeing Bush “leaning over [Penardo] crying hysterically” after the incident.

Penardo was transported to the hospital in critical condition, suffering from multiple brain bleeds and collapsed lungs. Despite medical efforts, Penardo’s injuries proved fatal.

Bush told police that she found tampons in the trash, leading to an argument with Penardo. During the altercation, Penardo allegedly retrieved a long, steel chain and began smashing the windows of Bush’s vehicle. In response, Bush allegedly accelerated the car, hitting Penardo, who was then thrown into a brick wall.

Police discovered methamphetamine and fentanyl in Bush’s car. Bush admitted to taking fentanyl earlier that day.

Video evidence reportedly shows Bush following Penardo in her car in an attempt to hit him. The footage captures Bush striking another vehicle and then attempting to hit Penardo again. Penardo then attacked the car with a chain before Bush ran over him and backed up, police said.

During Bush’s initial court appearance on the original charges, Judge Daniel Westmeyer declined to set bail. Her attorney requested a delay in the hearing due to Bush’s medical condition.

Penardo had a criminal history, including prison time for forgery, accessory to felony, conspiracy to commit murder, and insurance fraud. He previously took an Alford plea for his involvement in the 2008 death of Maria Marino, whose body was disposed of on Mt. Charleston.

Bush’s next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday morning.

Credits: 8 News Now