Merced County, CA (March 22, 2025) – A tragic head-on collision on Highway 165 near Turner Avenue claimed the lives of a man in his 40s and a child, both reportedly from Ceres.
Accident Details: The crash occurred around 12:20 a.m. and is being investigated as a suspected DUI. According to the California Highway Patrol, a 20-year-old woman from Los Banos was allegedly speeding on Highway 165 when she veered into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with the victim’s vehicle. Both the adult male driver and the child passenger died at the scene. The suspected DUI driver was transported to a hospital in Modesto with major injuries. CHP investigators have indicated that impairment was a factor, though it remains unclear whether the suspected substance involved was alcohol, drugs, or both.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: This incident highlights the extreme danger of impaired driving, especially when combined with excessive speed. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs suffer from delayed reaction times, impaired judgment, and poor decision-making, such as speeding. All of these actions can have consequences on the road.
Investigators will rely on toxicology reports, eyewitness statements, video surveillance in the area, scene reconstruction, and vehicle data to determine whether negligence was the cause of the crash. If so, the family of the man and child may have the right to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. These claims can help families recover compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, emotional distress, and other damages resulting from the loss of a loved one.
My deepest condolences go out to the victims’ families and loved ones during this difficult time.
Source: ABC 30