Rio Vista, CA (May 11, 2024) — A devastating head-on collision early Saturday morning on Highway 160 near Sherman Island Road claimed the lives of two individuals, including a mother of three identified as 29-year-old Jessica Hay, and left several others injured, including children.
Incident Overview: The incident occurred around 12:17 a.m. when a gray Nissan SUV, driven by 26-year-old John Malley from Antioch, reportedly veered into the northbound lane while traveling southbound on Highway 160. The Nissan collided head-on with a silver Lexus SUV that was traveling northbound. The Lexus was occupied by a 33-year-old driver, his 29-year-old partner Jessica Hay, and their three children—ages 2 months, 5 years, and 10 years.
Hay, the passenger in the Lexus, succumbed to her injuries at the scene. John Malley, the driver of the Nissan, also died as a result of the collision. The driver of the Lexus, who is also the father of the 2-month-old, sustained major injuries and was transported to a Bay Area hospital along with the 5-year-old girl and the 2-month-old. The 10-year-old child was taken to a hospital in Sacramento for treatment. Alcohol is believed to have been a factor in the crash, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Investigation and Legal Considerations: The CHP is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the collision and the role that alcohol may have played. This tragic incident underscores the critical importance of driving sober. Legal actions concerning wrongful death and personal injury claims may follow based on the results of the investigation, potentially providing compensation for medical care, funeral costs, and other related expenses.
My thoughts are with the families affected by this heartbreaking tragedy, especially the children who have been injured and lost their mother. This is a tragic example of the fatal cost of drunk driving and the lives it can ruin. In response to this tragedy, the family of Jessica Hay has setup a GoFundMe to help with funeral costs and medical expenses for the children. Please contribute if you can.