Bakersfield, CA – In the early hours of Sunday, August 24, 2025, a suspected DUI collision at Panama Lane and Stine Road left one person dead and two others injured, according to KBAK.
The Bakersfield Police Department reports that the accident happened around 1:20 AM when a westbound vehicle struck a southbound vehicle in the intersection. Officers arriving at the scene found two heavily damaged cars west of the intersection and a woman in her 20s lying in the roadway with severe injuries. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators reported that the woman had been a passenger in the southbound vehicle and was ejected during the collision. The driver of that vehicle sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital. The driver of the westbound vehicle was also hospitalized with minor injuries. Authorities believe speed and alcohol contributed to the crash.
While officers conducted their investigation, two additional vehicles drove through a police barricade and into the crash scene. Officers detained the drivers, a man and a woman, who were both found to be under the influence. They were arrested and booked into Kern County Jail on suspicion of DUI.
The Bakersfield Police Department urges anyone with information about this collision to contact their office as the investigation remains ongoing.
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.
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.”
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.
