San Joaquin County, CA (March 13, 2025) – A 63-year-old Stockton woman was killed late Thursday night in a multi-vehicle crash on Highway 99 involving a suspected drunk driver. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is investigating the fatal collision, which involved three vehicles and left one lane of the highway partially blocked.
Incident Overview: The crash occurred around 10:30 p.m. just north of Jack Tone Road. According to CHP, the driver of a GMC Sierra—identified as a 35-year-old man from Manteca—was traveling at high speed and under the influence of alcohol when he struck the left rear of a Ford Escape. The impact sent the Escape into a partial spin, leaving it disabled across the highway and shoulder. Moments later, the Sierra continued forward and rear-ended a 2017 Freightliner tractor-trailer.
Emergency personnel transported the Ford Escape’s driver to a nearby hospital, where she later died from her injuries. Authorities have not yet released her identity, pending notification of her family.
CHP has confirmed that alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor. The driver of the GMC Sierra has not yet been formally identified or charged, though the investigation remains active.
No arrests or citations have been announced.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: The CHP’s investigation will include an examination of the GMC Sierra driver’s speed, behavior, potential intoxication, and an assessment of how these factors contributed to the fatal accident. If confirmed, he may face serious criminal charges, including felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter.
In addition to criminal charges, the victim’s family may explore civil remedies through a wrongful death claim. California law allows families to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of support, and emotional suffering caused by another driver’s negligence or unlawful conduct.
My sincere condolences go out to the victim’s family and loved ones.
Source: ABC10 News