Bakersfield, CA – In the early hours of Sunday, June 28, 2026, a suspected DUI collision resulted in the death of a man and led to the arrest of Gavin Mundschau, 23, according to KGET.
The Bakersfield Police Department reports that the accident took place just after midnight at the intersection of California Avenue and Chester Lane.
Authorities said a silver BMW was traveling southbound on Chester Lane when a silver Mazda driven by Mundschau entered the intersection westbound against a red traffic signal, causing the collision. The driver of the BMW sustained major injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he died. Mundschau sustained injuries and was also transported for treatment.
Officers determined Mundschau was under the influence at the time of the crash. Following medical clearance, he was to be booked into the Kern County Sheriff’s Office Jail on charges related to vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
The identity of the deceased had not been released at the time of reporting. Anyone with information on the crash is encouraged to contact the Bakersfield Police Department. The investigation remains ongoing.
Wrongful Death Claim
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 support for dependents of the deceased.
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.
