Santa Rosa, CA (March 18, 2025) – A man was killed Monday night when an alleged DUI driver, Aaron Rodriguez Hernandez, 21, crashed into his vehicle at the intersection of Montgomery Drive and Farmers Lane. Authorities say Hernandez was under the influence of drugs and speeding when the collision occurred.
Incident Details: According to the Santa Rosa Police Department, officers were conducting a DUI investigation on Seventh Street around 10:06 p.m. when they noticed a gray Nissan Maxima speeding on nearby E Street. An officer attempted to catch up to the vehicle but lost sight of it. Moments later, the Nissan entered the intersection of Montgomery Drive and Farmers Lane and collided with a silver Toyota Camry. The driver of the Camry, who was the sole occupant, was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released.
Hernandez was transported to a local hospital with moderate injuries. After being released, he was arrested by the California Highway Patrol and booked into the Sonoma County Jail on charges of vehicular manslaughter, DUI drugs with injury, driving without a license, and violation of probation.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: DUI-related crashes resulting in fatalities carry serious criminal and civil consequences. Investigators will work to determine the extent of Hernandez’s impairment and whether additional reckless behavior contributed to the crash. The family of the victim may have grounds for a wrongful death claim to seek justice and compensation for their loss.
My deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the victim.
Source: KRON4