Stockton, California (October 19, 2025) — A 22-year-old father and his two young daughters were killed in a suspected DUI head-on collision in unincorporated San Joaquin County over the weekend, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Incident Details: The fatal crash occurred shortly before 9:30 p.m. Saturday near the intersection of Mariposa and Dodds roads in southeast Stockton. CHP officers reported that two SUVs were involved in the collision. One vehicle carried five occupants — 22-year-old Jonathan Jose Corona Chavez, his partner, and their three young children — while a single motorist drove the other.
Investigators determined that the driver of the second SUV crossed into the path of the family’s vehicle, causing a violent head-on impact. Chavez died at the scene. Two of the children, identified as 2-year-old Xtaly Corona Miranda and 4-year-old Ariella Corona Miranda, were taken to a hospital but later died from their injuries. The children’s mother suffered significant injuries and remains hospitalized.
The driver of the other SUV was treated for moderate injuries and later arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. Authorities have not released the driver’s name. CHP’s investigation remains ongoing.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol believes impairment was central to this tragedy. Investigators will analyze toxicology results, crash data, and roadway evidence to confirm whether the suspect driver’s intoxication caused the SUV to veer into oncoming traffic. They may also review factors such as speed, distraction, or fatigue. In DUI-related fatalities, police reports often form the foundation of both criminal prosecution and civil litigation.
The driver could face multiple felony charges, including gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and driving under the influence causing death. Prosecutors will evaluate whether the driver’s actions showed reckless disregard for human life, which can elevate the potential penalties.
Legal Considerations: Beyond the criminal proceedings, surviving relatives of Jonathan Jose Corona Chavez and his children may pursue civil remedies through a wrongful death claim. Such claims can compensate for funeral expenses, loss of income and companionship, and the emotional devastation left in the wake of the crash. The injured mother may also pursue a separate car accident claim for her medical costs, pain, and long-term recovery needs.
Because DUI constitutes egregious negligence, the family may also seek punitive damages, compensation meant to punish and deter reckless behavior. To ensure full accountability, these cases often require extensive investigation, including toxicology records, witness testimony, and expert accident reconstruction.
I extend my deepest condolences to the loved ones of Jonathan Jose Corona Chavez, Xtaly, and Ariella Corona Miranda, and wish strength and healing to their surviving mother as she recovers.
Source: CBS News Sacramento