Monterey County, CA – In the early hours of Saturday, April 4, 2026, a suspected DUI hit-and-run resulted in the death of Bryan Ortiz, 22, of Castroville, and left three others hospitalized, according to KSBW, with additional reporting from CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 12:45 AM on Highway 1 south of Springfield Road near Moss Landing.
Authorities said a 25-year-old San Jose man was driving a BMW sedan northbound on Highway 1 when, for reasons still under investigation, he crossed into the southbound lane and collided head-on with a Ford SUV driven by Ortiz. Both vehicles overturned as a result of the impact, with occupants reported trapped inside. Empty alcoholic containers were found inside the BMW following the collision.
Ortiz was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the BMW and a 24-year-old male passenger sustained major injuries and were transported to a local hospital. A third male passenger in the BMW sustained moderate injuries and was also hospitalized.
Following the crash, the BMW’s driver and one passenger attempted to flee the scene on foot. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office deployed a drone and located the two suspects hiding near a pond in the area of Highway 1 and Struve Road, where they were detained. A canine unit was also requested to assist with tracking. The driver of the BMW was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, manslaughter, and hit-and-run.
Both vehicles were towed to an evidence yard following the investigation. The roadway was reopened at approximately 3:37 AM. The District Attorney’s office was subsequently notified and coordinated with responding officers. Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact the California Highway Patrol. 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.”
Hit-and-Runs and Wrongful Death Claims
The compensation provided by a wrongful death claim can financially support families grieving the loss of a loved one due to another person’s negligence. These funds can go toward hospital bills, burial expenses, and help support any dependents of the deceased.
In cases where the at-fault party escapes justice, families may still be able to pursue compensation through their own uninsured driver coverage. A personal injury attorney can offer guidance on what options they may have available and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that victims receive the best settlement possible.
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.
