Richmond, CA – In the early hours of Sunday, October 19, 2025, a suspected DUI crash on Interstate 80 claimed the life of a passenger and left two others injured, according to KRON, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the collision took place around 2:08 AM near Hilltop Drive.
A preliminary investigation determined that two vehicles, a BMW 440i and a Toyota Prius, were involved in the crash, which caused one vehicle to overturn and blocked several lanes of the freeway.
Authorities said the rear passenger of the Toyota sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Toyota suffered a major injury and required emergency medical treatment. The driver of the BMW sustained a minor injury and was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Investigators believe alcohol and/or drugs were contributing factors in the collision. The Contra Costa County Coroner’s Office will release the identity of the deceased passenger once the next of kin has been notified.
Traffic on eastbound I-80 was temporarily halted, and lanes three and four were closed for several hours while emergency crews cleared debris and removed both vehicles. All lanes were reopened by 5:00 AM, and the investigation remains ongoing.
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.
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.
