Petaluma driver, 62, suffers heart attack, dies on birthday

<p>Petaluma resident Russell Gilardi, 62, died early Tuesday after suffering an apparent heart attack while driving on Petaluma Boulevard North.</p><p>At about 12:45 a.m. Gilardi and a passenger were traveling north near Metz Lane when the medical emergency occurred, according to the CHP.</p><p>The 2007 Chevrolet Silverado hit a guardrail and sign before the passenger was able to stop the truck and call 911, said CHP Officer Kerri Post.</p><p>Gilardi was taken to Petaluma Valley Hospital and declared dead, said Post.</p><p>According to the driver's license, he died on his birthday.</p><p>Copyright © 2012 PressDemocrat.com — All rights reserved. Restricted use only.</p>