Petaluma, California (October 26, 2025) — One person was killed and two others were seriously injured Sunday morning in a three-vehicle crash on Lakeville Highway, according to the California Highway Patrol. Authorities say the driver suspected of causing the collision was arrested on suspicion of DUI.
Incident Details: The crash occurred just after 5:55 a.m. on Lakeville Highway, south of Old Lakeville Road No. 3. Investigators said a Ford Mustang traveling southbound crossed the double yellow lines while attempting to pass a Toyota Highlander illegally. The Mustang then collided head-on with a northbound Honda HR-V, causing the Toyota to spin off the road after being sideswiped.
A passenger in the Honda died at the scene from their injuries. The Honda’s driver was transported to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital with major injuries. The driver of the Mustang, who was the sole occupant of that vehicle, also sustained major injuries and was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. No one inside the Toyota was injured. Lakeville Highway was shut down for more than four hours while investigators processed the scene and removed the wreckage.
Investigation: CHP’s preliminary investigation indicates that the Mustang’s illegal passing maneuver directly caused the fatal collision. Officers will conduct toxicology testing to determine the extent of the driver’s impairment and analyze vehicle data to confirm speed at the time of impact. Investigators will also document skid marks, debris fields, and the final resting positions of the vehicles to reconstruct how quickly events unfolded.
Drunk and drug-impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatal head-on collisions in California. In this case, the evidence already points to gross negligence — crossing double yellow lines on a two-lane highway under the influence dramatically increases the risk of catastrophic outcomes. CHP will likely forward its findings to the Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office for review of potential felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter charges.
Legal Considerations: When intoxicated driving leads to a fatal crash, the legal consequences extend beyond criminal charges. The family of the Honda passenger who lost their life may pursue a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering. The injured driver of the Honda may also have grounds for a car accident claim to recover damages for medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.
Because the at-fault driver was allegedly impaired, punitive damages may also be sought to hold them financially accountable for reckless and unlawful behavior. DUI-related civil claims often proceed alongside criminal prosecutions, ensuring victims and their families can seek justice through the courts and civil compensation.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family of the person killed in this tragic crash and wish the injured victims strength and healing in their recovery.
Source: KTVU