Bakersfield, CA – On the early morning of Friday, June 13, 2025, a suspected DUI collision killed 23-year-old Alejandro Marix Manriquez-Chavez and injured another person, according to KGET.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the accident took place around 1:00 AM near the Beale Avenue exit along eastbound Highway 178.
Authorities say a Hyundai Santa Fe, driven by 27-year-old Hisa Ann Castillo, was traveling at high speed when it veered onto the right shoulder and struck a Saturn Ion parked along the side of the highway. The impact killed Manriquez-Chavez, who was in the parked vehicle, and seriously injured another occupant.
Castillo reportedly sustained minor injuries and was taken into custody later that morning. According to court documents, she has been charged with gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, two counts of DUI causing injury, and a misdemeanor for driving on a suspended or revoked license.
She pleaded not guilty and remains in custody on $700,000 bail. Her next court date is scheduled for June 27.
California DUI Law
Section 23153(a) of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) states that it is illegal for any driver to “Operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, cause bodily injury to someone else.”
Wrongful Death Claims
Even if a fatal accident doesn’t lead to criminal charges, families who lose a loved one can still file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide support to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income.
