Petaluma, California (October 26, 2025) — Authorities have identified the woman killed in a head-on crash last month on Lakeville Highway as 46-year-old Carolina Guzman Sierra of Vallejo. According to the California Highway Patrol, the two-vehicle collision occurred around 6 a.m. near Old Lakeville Road No. 3, south of Petaluma, and left both drivers hospitalized with significant injuries.
Incident Details: Investigators reported that Guzman Sierra was a passenger in a northbound Honda HR-V when a southbound Ford Mustang, driven by 24-year-old Jesus Garcia of Vallejo, attempted to pass a Toyota Highlander by crossing over double yellow lines. The Mustang struck the Honda head-on, killing Guzman Sierra instantly.
The Honda’s driver sustained major injuries and was transported to Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital. Garcia also suffered major injuries and was hospitalized. The six occupants of the Toyota were uninjured after their vehicle was struck on the left side and spun off the roadway.
CHP officers at the scene observed signs of impairment in Garcia, who was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI involving alcohol and drugs and vehicular manslaughter. He remained hospitalized as of Monday and will be booked into the Sonoma County Jail upon release.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol’s Santa Rosa Area Office continues to investigate the crash. Preliminary findings indicate that DUI, an illegal passing maneuver, and unsafe speed were contributing factors. Investigators are analyzing physical evidence, including skid marks, vehicle impact points, and roadway debris, to confirm the sequence of events.
Officers are also reviewing toxicology reports, mechanical conditions of the vehicles, and data from the Mustang’s onboard systems to verify speed and braking prior to impact. In collisions involving suspected impairment, CHP typically examines surveillance footage, interviews witnesses, and conducts forensic testing to establish both causation and the level of intoxication. The final report will determine whether additional charges or enhancements apply.
Legal Considerations: A fatal collision caused by an intoxicated driver initiates both criminal and civil proceedings. Civil claims in DUI cases often run parallel to the criminal prosecution, which is essential for ensuring the victims and their families secure the financial accountability they are due.
While prosecutors pursue DUI manslaughter charges, the family of Carolina Guzman Sierra may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for funeral costs, emotional loss, and loss of companionship. The injured driver of the Honda may also pursue a car accident claim for medical expenses, long-term rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.
In DUI cases, civil claims often proceed alongside criminal prosecution, ensuring that victims and their families receive the financial accountability they deserve.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Carolina Guzman Sierra and wish a full recovery to those injured in this tragic, preventable crash.
Source: Petaluma News