Calabasas, CA (April 11, 2025) – A driver was killed early Friday morning after a Buick SUV crashed into a parked Kia sedan on the shoulder of the southbound Ventura (101) Freeway, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Authorities suspect the driver of the Buick was under the influence at the time of the crash.
Incident Details: The collision occurred at approximately 2:01 a.m. just south of Mureau Road. CHP officials reported that a gray Kia sedan was parked on the right shoulder of the freeway with two occupants inside when a gray Buick SUV veered off the main lanes and struck the rear of the Kia at high speed.
Both individuals in the Kia were transported to Los Robles Regional Medical Center, where the driver was pronounced dead. The passenger’s condition has not been publicly released. The identity of the deceased has not yet been disclosed, pending notification of next of kin by the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The 19-year-old driver of the Buick was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI and murder, indicating that investigators believe the driver was intoxicated and acted with reckless disregard for human life.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: The ongoing investigation will focus on toxicology results, vehicle speeds, roadway conditions, why the Kia was stopped on the shoulder, and whether any warnings or signals were in place.
Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the victim’s family may pursue a wrongful death claim to recover damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering. The surviving passenger may also be entitled to file a personal injury claim for any physical and psychological harm sustained.
I extend my condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. I also wish the injured passenger a speedy and complete recovery.
Source: Calabasas Patch