Bakersfield, CA – On the evening of Saturday, November 8, 2025, a collision on northbound Interstate 5 left a 61-year-old man dead and led to the arrest of a 21-year-old Wasco resident for suspected DUI, according to KBAK.

The California Highway Patrol reports that the crash took place around 11:10 PM on northbound Interstate 5, north of Templin Highway, in Los Angeles County.

Authorities said the driver of a white Jeep Cherokee, a 61-year-old man, was ejected from his vehicle during the collision and died at the scene from his injuries. 

The other driver, identified as Martin Enrique Cazares, 21, of Wasco, was driving a silver Toyota Camry. Investigators stated that Cazares appeared to be under the influence at the time of the crash.

Cazares was arrested and booked into the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Station in Santa Clarita on charges of felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter. Traffic on Interstate 5 was stopped for about an hour as CHP officers investigated and cleared the wreckage.

Authorities emphasized the ongoing investigation into the cause of the crash and urged anyone with information to contact the California Highway Patrol Newhall Area Office.

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.

Bakersfield Wrongful Death Lawyer

If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Bakersfield Wrongful Death Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.