[06-01-2025] Merced County, CA – Woman and 3-Year-Old Girl Killed in DUI Hit-and-Run Crash on Southern Pacific Avenue in Atwater

A 20-year-old woman and a 3-year-old girl were killed in a DUI hit-and-run crash involving a speeding pickup truck on Southern Pacific Avenue in Atwater on Sunday night, June 1, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision occurred around 10:35 p.m. near the intersection of Southern Pacific Avenue and Commerce Avenue.

A 19-year-old man identified as Moises C. of Catheys Valley was driving a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado eastbound on Southern Pacific Avenue at a high rate of speed when he failed to stop at a posted stop sign.

At the same time, a 17-year-old driver of a 2025 Honda Civic was making a left turn onto Commerce Avenue with three passengers inside. The speeding driver’s pickup truck slammed into the passenger side of the Honda, tearing through the doors and ejecting the 20-year-old woman.

The 17-year-old driver and an 18-year-old front-seat passenger attempted to aid the woman and the 3-year-old passenger. Responding officers arrived and performed CPR, but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The child was taken to a hospital, where she later died from her injuries.

The driver of the Chevrolet fled on foot but was located around 12:20 a.m. near Southern Pacific Avenue and Herrod Avenue with minor injuries. He was arrested and is facing charges of felony DUI, felony hit-and-run, and vehicular manslaughter.

The investigation is ongoing.

Talk To Our DUI Accident Lawyers In Atwater, CA

Losing a loved one in a DUI accident is a heartbreaking and overwhelming experience. The emotional and financial impact can be devastating, leaving families to cope with grief, medical bills, funeral costs, and the loss of a primary source of support. DUI accidents often involve reckless decisions that result in severe consequences for innocent victims.

If your loved one has been killed in a DUI accident, our compassionate DUI accident lawyers in Atwater are here to guide you through this difficult time. We understand the complexities of wrongful death cases and are committed to helping you understand your legal rights. Our team will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, gather evidence, and work with medical and accident experts to assess the full impact of the loss.

We will help you navigate the legal process, whether you’re seeking a wrongful death claim or addressing insurance matters, so you can focus on honoring your loved one’s memory. To discuss your case and get the support you need, call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What To Do After A DUI Accident

If you’ve been involved in a DUI accident as a victim, it can be a traumatic experience. Knowing what steps to take can help protect your health, your rights, and your ability to seek compensation. Here’s what we recommend you do:

1. Ensure Safety And Seek Medical Attention
   Your health should always be your first priority. If you are able, check for injuries and call for medical help immediately. Even if you feel fine at first, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. It’s essential to be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible.
2. Call Law Enforcement
   It’s important to report the accident to the police. They will document the scene and investigate the incident, including the possibility that the other driver was under the influence. A police report will be crucial in building your case later.
3. Gather Information
   Try to gather as much information as possible from the scene. If you can, take note of the other driver’s details, such as their name, contact information, and insurance information. Also, get the contact information of any witnesses. Document the scene with photos if you can safely do so.
4. Avoid Contact With The At-Fault Driver
   While it may be tempting to confront the driver responsible for the accident, it’s best to avoid direct communication. Let law enforcement handle this part. The at-fault driver may be under the influence and may not be able to provide accurate or honest information.
5. Notify Your Insurance Provider
   Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Be honest and provide all relevant information, including the details of the other driver and the fact that the accident may involve DUI. They will help guide you through the claims process.
6. Consult With An Attorney
   Consulting with a personal injury attorney experienced in DUI accidents is highly recommended. They can help you understand your legal rights, evaluate your case, and guide you through the process of seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk-driving accidents claim the lives of around 34 people every single day in the United States. This means that, on average, one person dies every 42 minutes due to an alcohol-impaired driver. In 2023, a staggering 12,429 individuals lost their lives in crashes caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol.

These statistics highlight a critical issue: these deaths are entirely preventable. With the right precautions, such as designating a sober driver, using rideshare services, or simply avoiding driving after drinking, many of these fatalities could have been avoided. Drunk driving continues to be a major cause of traffic fatalities, yet it remains a problem that can be solved through responsible behavior and public awareness.