Long Beach, California (August 30, 2025) — A 37-year-old motorcyclist was killed Saturday night in a collision with an SUV at an intersection in Long Beach, according to police. The SUV driver was later arrested on suspicion of DUI and vehicular manslaughter.
Incident Details: The fatal crash occurred at approximately 9:01 p.m. at the intersection of 11th Street and Redondo Avenue. Investigators with the Long Beach Police Department reported that a 2010 KTM motorcycle, ridden by 37-year-old Roberto Barraza of Long Beach, was traveling southbound on Redondo when it collided with a 2006 Toyota Sequoia heading east on 11th Street. Long Beach Fire crews responded, but Barraza was pronounced dead at the scene. Early reports mistakenly identified the rider as female, but authorities later confirmed Barraza’s identity. The driver of the Sequoia was arrested at the scene on suspicion of DUI and gross vehicular manslaughter. The case remains under active investigation by the LBPD Collision Investigation Detail.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: When DUI is suspected in a fatal collision, both criminal and civil consequences are at issue. In this case, the SUV driver faces potential felony charges, including vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. Investigators will examine the circumstances of the crash to determine exactly how the vehicles entered the intersection. Factors such as right-of-way, speed, and visibility may all come into play, but the allegation of impaired driving will likely dominate criminal prosecution and civil litigation. Insurance coverage, vehicle damage assessments, and toxicology results will be part of the evidence to establish liability.
Motorcycle crashes involving impaired drivers are particularly devastating because motorcyclists lack the protection of enclosed vehicles. Even a low-speed impact can cause fatal injuries to riders, while DUI often increases the force and unpredictability of collisions.
From a civil perspective, the family of Roberto Barraza may file a wrongful death claim against the driver at fault to seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and the profound emotional loss of their loved one. Because DUI involves reckless disregard for human life, punitive damages may also be available to hold the driver further accountable. For families like Barraza’s, legal action cannot undo the tragedy but may provide financial stability and a sense of justice as they grieve.
I offer my deepest condolences to Roberto Barraza’s family and friends during this time.
Source: KTLA