(Lancaster, CA) An 18-year-old driver lost their life in a deadly Palmdale Boulevard DUI crash Monday evening after a suspected impaired motorist ran a red light at high speed, according to authorities.
On Monday, September 22, at around 6:50 p.m., the Palmdale Boulevard DUI crash occurred at the intersection of 90th Street East. The California Highway Patrol reported that 47-year-old M. Monroy of Palmdale drove a maroon Kia southbound when he failed to stop at a red light.
The Kia entered the intersection at speed and struck a gray Infiniti G35 traveling eastbound on Palmdale Boulevard. The force of the impact caused the Infiniti to lose control and slam into a white Chevrolet Avalanche that was stopped at the red light.
The 18-year-old Infiniti driver, a resident of Littlerock sustained fatal injuries, authorities pronouncing them dead. Their name has not yet been released pending notification of relatives. Monroy sustained serious injuries and was taken to a hospital. The Chevrolet’s driver, G. Martinez of Lancaster, escaped injury, while a female passenger suffered minor wounds. Authorities later arrested Monroy on suspicion of DUI. The CHP continues to investigate the Palmdale Boulevard DUI crash.
The consequences of impaired driving can go far beyond fines or license suspension. Knowing what is a felony DUI is essential to understanding how quickly a DUI can escalate.
Legal Perspective on the Palmdale Boulevard DUI Crash
This heartbreaking case highlights California’s strict laws against impaired driving. DUI collisions that cause death carry both criminal consequences and civil liability.
The first relevant statute is California Vehicle Code 23152, which prohibits driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If authorities confirm Monroy’s impairment, then police will charge him of violating this law. Because the crash caused a fatality, California Vehicle Code 23153 also applies. This statute elevates DUI incidents resulting in injury or death to felonies with severe prison penalties.
Prosecutors may also pursue California Penal Code 191.5(a), which covers gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. This charge is commonly filed in fatal DUI crashes. On the civil side, California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60 allows the victim’s family to bring a wrongful death lawsuit. Such a claim can provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.
Guidance for the Family
For the family of the 18-year-old victim, this sudden loss is devastating. Speaking with a wrongful death attorney can help them understand their rights and options. A lawyer can track the criminal case, gather CHP reports, and work with accident reconstruction experts to strengthen a civil claim.
Pursuing legal action is not just about finances, it ensures accountability and preserves their loved one’s memory. Taking timely steps after the Palmdale Boulevard DUI crash will help the family secure justice and protect their rights during this painful time.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is a difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
