Bakersfield, CA (June 13, 2025) — A 23-year-old man lost his life early Friday morning after a suspected drunk driver crashed into a parked vehicle on Highway 178 near Beale Avenue.
Incident Details: The California Highway Patrol responded to reports of a multi-vehicle collision around 1:03 a.m. on the eastbound side of Highway 178, just west of Beale Avenue. According to investigators, a Saturn Ion was parked on the right shoulder with two occupants inside when a Hyundai Santa Fe, allegedly traveling at high speed, drifted onto the shoulder and struck the Saturn from behind. The impact caused both vehicles to overturn into the roadway.
One of the Saturn’s occupants, identified as 23-year-old Alejandro Marix Manriquez-Chavez of Bakersfield, was pronounced dead at the scene. The second occupant sustained moderate injuries and was transported to Kern Medical Hospital. The driver of the Hyundai was also hospitalized with minor injuries.
CHP officers closed the eastbound lanes of Highway 178 for approximately three hours to conduct an investigation and clear debris.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: The investigation is ongoing, and preliminary findings indicate alcohol may have played a role in the crash. CHP will also assess vehicle trajectories, speed, driver conduct, and timing.
Pending the results of the ongoing investigation, the family of Mr. Manriquez-Chavez may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim. This claim can help them seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and the emotional pain of their loss. Additionally, those injured in the incident may be able to file personal injury claims to cover medical costs and lost wages.
My condolences to the loved ones of Alejandro Marix Manriquez-Chavez.
Source: Bakersfield Now