San Clemente, California (March 30, 2026) — A 53-year-old woman was killed, and three others were critically injured in a crash involving a fleeing suspect driving a stolen vehicle in San Clemente, according to authorities.
Officials identified the deceased as Maria Ramirezahmad of Anaheim.
The crash occurred just before 8:00 a.m. at the intersection of Avenida Granada and Ola Vista.
Incident Details: According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, deputies attempted to stop a stolen U-Haul truck with no license plates when the driver, identified as Matthew Alexander Ronquillo, 39, of Cerritos, fled at a high rate of speed.
During the pursuit, the U-Haul collided with an SUV at the intersection. Ramirezahmad, who was driving the SUV, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Three adult female passengers in the SUV were transported to the hospital in critical condition, according to authorities.
A passenger in the U-Haul, Gregorio Horacio Trejochavez, 56, of La Habra, was also taken to the hospital. His condition has not been publicly disclosed.
After the crash, Ronquillo allegedly fled on foot, crossing the 5 Freeway before being located by a sheriff’s helicopter and apprehended with the assistance of a K-9 unit. Authorities said Ronquillo was later booked on multiple felony charges, including felony evasion causing death, hit-and-run, gross vehicular manslaughter, and possession of a stolen vehicle.
Investigation: The Orange County Sheriff’s Department is continuing to investigate the crash. In pursuit-related collisions, investigators typically examine speed, decision-making during the pursuit, and the sequence of events leading up to the crash. A key focus will be on how the fleeing driver operated the vehicle and whether the collision resulted from reckless evasion.
Crash reconstruction will likely include analysis of vehicle speed, impact points, and traffic conditions, along with review of pursuit protocols and bodycam or aerial footage. Authorities will also evaluate whether the suspect’s actions, such as fleeing at high speed in a stolen vehicle, directly caused the fatal collision and resulting injuries.
Legal Considerations: Crashes caused by fleeing suspects often involve clear liability issues, particularly when reckless evasion results in injury or death.
In this case, the conduct alleged to include fleeing from law enforcement and driving a stolen vehicle at high speed may constitute gross negligence or recklessness, significantly strengthening potential civil claims.
These cases often involve both criminal proceedings and parallel civil claims arising from the same conduct.
The family of Maria Ramirezahmad may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim, which can include compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship. The injured passengers may also pursue personal injury claims for medical expenses, long-term care, lost income, and pain and suffering, especially given the severity of their injuries.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Maria Ramirezahmad, and I wish strength and recovery to those who were injured.
Source: KTLA 5