Gilroy, CA (January 1, 2025) – On New Year’s Day, a head-on collision on Leavesley Road in Gilroy tragically took the life of Rachel Marie Gonzalez Gallegos, a 29-year-old pregnant woman and mother from Gilroy.
Accident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash occurred around 6:35 p.m. when a GMC truck driven by 50-year-old Mr. Temores veered into oncoming traffic, striking the 2021 Chevy SUV driven by Gonzalez Gallegos’s husband, Gonzalez Mora. Gonzalez Gallegos and her unborn baby were tragically killed. Another vehicle, driven by 34-year-old Mr. Tobar, was also involved in the collision.
Investigation: Temores was allegedly speeding at the time of the crash and has been booked into the Santa Clara County Jail without bail. CHP urges anyone with dash-cam footage of the crash to contact their Hollister/Gilroy division. The collision reportedly happened on a stretch of road known for heavy traffic and high speeds. Residents have expressed concerns about the intersection of Leavesley Road and New Avenue, with some suggesting the need for a stoplight to improve safety.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. If Temores’s speeding and loss of control are confirmed, his actions may constitute negligence, a legal concept that arises when a person fails to exercise reasonable care.
In addition to facing criminal charges, Temores may also face civil consequences. The surviving family members of Rachel Gonzalez Gallegos may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim. Such a claim seeks compensation for damages caused by the loss of a loved one, including loss of financial support, funeral and burial expenses, and loss of companionship and emotional support. The municipality may also share liability if evidence reveals they were aware of the unsafe road conditions and failed to take corrective action.
I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Rachel Gonzalez Gallegos as they face this unimaginable loss. Her family has set up a GoFundMe page for final expenses. Please contribute if you can.
Source: FOX 2 KTVU