In a heart-wrenching turn of events, a woman lost her life on Sunday morning when she became the victim of a tragic crash caused by an intoxicated driver with whom she had the unfortunate encounter of sharing the vehicle.
Fatal Collision
At around 2:08 a.m., the Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD) received multiple calls reporting a severe single-vehicle collision in the vicinity of the 800 block of South Main Street in Santa Ana. Upon arriving at the scene, SAPD officers and Orange County Fire Authority first responders encountered a harrowing spectacle.
A truck lay crumpled, having collided with a towering palm tree and subsequently a steel pole. The impact of the crash left the vehicle severely damaged, with debris strewn across the road.
Intoxicated Driver’s Reckless Actions
Initial investigations by the SAPD revealed that the truck had been traveling southbound on Main Street when it veered out of control. The driver, who was later found to have a history of DUI arrests, was under the influence of alcohol and potentially additional drugs at the time of the crash.
Tragically, the female passenger sitting in the front seat of the vehicle bore the brunt of the impact. She was pronounced deceased at a nearby hospital, leaving behind loved ones devastated by her sudden and senseless loss.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
The intoxicated driver was apprehended on charges of DUI causing death and vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence. His identity remains undisclosed as the Santa Ana Police Department’s Collision Investigations Unit continues its investigation into the tragic incident.
Seeking Witnesses
The SAPD urges anyone with information regarding the crash to come forward. Anyone with knowledge or observations that could aid the investigation is encouraged to contact Detective Corporal D. Carrillo at 714-245-8208 or the Traffic Division at 714-245-8200.
This heart-wrenching accident serves as a grim reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise from impaired driving. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the victim’s family and friends as they grapple with this profound loss.
