Sonora, CA – On the early morning of Saturday, July 6, 2025, a single-vehicle collision resulted in fatal injuries to a 54-year-old Sonora resident, according to The Modesto Bee.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the accident took place around 12:05 AM near Peppermint Circle, west of Peppermint Lane.

Authorities say Jack Jensen, 61, of Sonora, was driving a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado westbound with the woman as his passenger when he failed to negotiate a curve. The vehicle left the roadway, struck a tree, continued northwest, collided with a second tree, and ultimately backed into a wooden utility pole.

The passenger died at the scene due to her injuries. The Tuolumne County Coroner’s Office has not released her name pending notification of next of kin.

Officers determined that Jensen was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. He was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter and booked into the Tuolumne County jail.

The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact the Sonora area CHP office.

Passenger Liability

Driver liability insurance covers both those outside the vehicle and passengers inside. While it can be emotionally difficult to file a Wrongful Death claim against someone close to the victim, the financial challenges after an accident can be overwhelming. As a neutral third party, an experienced personal injury attorney can help to navigate these emotional complexities.

California Wrongful Death Lawyer

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