Monterey County, California (August 31, 2025) — A suspected DUI driver has been arrested following a head-on collision that left one man dead and four others injured Sunday night, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Incident Details: The crash occurred at approximately 7:56 p.m. on Old Stage Road, north of Natividad Road. CHP investigators reported that a red pickup truck, driven by 29-year-old Miguel Soto Garcia of Watsonville, collided head-on with a silver Nissan SUV carrying five occupants. The driver of the Nissan, a 47-year-old man from Salinas, was pronounced dead at the scene from his injuries. Four other passengers in the Nissan, ranging in age from 10 to 42, sustained injuries described as moderate to major. One of the passengers was airlifted to San Jose for specialized treatment, while the others were transported to local hospitals.
Garcia suffered minor injuries and was taken into custody. Authorities confirmed that he has been charged with DUI causing bodily injury, DUI with a blood alcohol concentration above .08, and murder. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office will release the identity of the deceased driver once his family has been notified.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: DUI-related collisions are among the most preventable tragedies on California roadways, and the criminal charges in this case reflect the severity of Garcia’s alleged conduct. Beyond the criminal case, the surviving victims and the family of the deceased driver may pursue civil claims to hold Garcia accountable for the full scope of harm caused. Under California law, intoxicated drivers who cause fatal accidents may face liability not only for wrongful death but also for punitive damages, which are intended to punish egregious misconduct.
The wrongful death claim available to the Salinas man’s family may provide compensation for funeral costs, lost financial support, and the immeasurable emotional toll of losing a loved one. The injured passengers also have potential claims for medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Because one victim is a child, future medical and educational needs may be considered when assessing damages. These types of claims are often complex and require thorough investigation to document the full impact of injuries on each victim’s life.
While DUI is the central issue here, investigators may also examine whether roadway conditions, vehicle maintenance, or other contributing factors played a role. However, the fact that Garcia was arrested and charged with murder underscores the likelihood that intoxication will remain the focal point of both criminal and civil proceedings.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family of the man killed, and my thoughts are with the injured victims as they recover.
Source: KSBW