Bakersfield, CA (October 4, 2025) – An alleged DUI driver crashed into an East Bakersfield apartment early Saturday, injuring a resident and leaving her home uninhabitable, according to Eyewitness News.
Accident Details: The crash happened in the 1900 block of Gage Street during the early morning hours. Authorities said 22-year-old Thomas David Gonzales Jr. lost control of a 2024 Honda Accord and smashed into the apartment where resident Madison Leeann Desrochers was inside. Desrochers sustained minor to moderate injuries and was displaced from her home; she reported now living in her car. Officials said the driver fled after the crash, but a neighbor pursued and detained him until police arrived.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol and local authorities are investigating the circumstances of the collision and the driver’s alleged impairment. Investigators will review scene evidence, vehicle data, and witness statements to determine speed, point of impact, and whether alcohol or drugs contributed. Charges referenced by officials include DUI and hit-and-run, with the investigation ongoing.
Legal Considerations: Suspected DUI and hit-and-run collisions can give rise to both criminal prosecution and civil claims. Injured residents may pursue compensation for medical treatment, property damage, relocation costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Documentation—medical records, repair estimates, and photographs of damage—can help substantiate losses in insurance negotiations or litigation.
This was a traumatic event for the resident and neighbors in East Bakersfield. I wish the injured resident a full recovery and a swift path to stable housing.
Source: BakersfieldNow