Santa Rosa, CA (May 13, 2024) — A fatal head-on collision early Monday morning claimed the life of a Santa Rosa woman, Maria Jimenez Rosas, 56. The crash occurred on Guerneville Road near Laguna Road, and the other driver involved is suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, according to the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office.
Incident Overview: Maria Jimenez Rosas was traveling westbound on Guerneville Road in her Toyota Rav4 when an eastbound BMW X6 veered across the double yellow lines and collided head-on with her vehicle. Jimenez Rosas was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the BMW sustained major injuries that were not life-threatening and was transported to Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), evidence of drugs and drug paraphernalia was found in the BMW, and the driver showed signs of being under the influence at the scene.
Legal and Investigative Actions: The BMW’s driver is expected to be arrested on suspicion of DUI and vehicular manslaughter upon release from the hospital. The name of the BMW driver has been withheld pending arrest, and it is currently unclear if the Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office has filed charges related to the collision. However, based on the information available so far, the family of the victim could consider pursuing a wrongful death claim.
My thoughts are with the family and friends of Maria Jimenez Rosas following this crash. I hope they receive the support they need during this difficult time.
Source: The Press Democrat