Riverside, CA (April 30, 2025) – A suspected DUI crash on Wednesday evening has left one man dead and several others injured in downtown Riverside.
Accident Details: The crash occurred around 6 p.m. at the intersection of Fifth Street and Market Street. According to Riverside Police, 19-year-old Isaac Isaiah Villalba of Redlands was driving a Dodge Challenger southbound on Market Street at a high rate of speed when he crashed into the back of a Honda Civic, traveling in the same direction.
The force of the collision pushed the Honda into oncoming traffic, and it collided head-on with a vehicle traveling northbound. The Dodge continued on and struck another car before coming to a stop.
The driver of the Honda Civic, 37-year-old Christian Barragan of Riverside, was rushed to a nearby hospital but died less than an hour later. Two other drivers and a passenger involved in the secondary collisions were also hospitalized with injuries described as ranging from minor to moderate.
Villalba attempted to run from the scene but was stopped by officers after allegedly resisting arrest. He was taken to the hospital for treatment and then booked into jail. He now faces multiple felony charges, including murder, DUI causing injury, hit-and-run causing death, and resisting arrest.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs judgment and delays reaction time. When paired with speeding, it creates a hazardous situation for everyone on the road. Investigators will examine the scene, toxicology reports, witness statements, and video footage from nearby businesses, dashcams, or traffic lights to reconstruct the accident.
Depending on the findings of the investigation, the Barragan’s family may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. The injured individuals may be able to file personal injury claims.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to Christian Barragan’s family and friends. I also hope for the recovery of the others who were injured in this crash.
Source: CBS News