[06-29-2025] San Diego County, CA – Passenger Killed in Head-On DUI Crash on Broadway in Lemon Grove

A passenger was killed after a suspected DUI driver crashed head-on into an SUV in Lemon Grove on Sunday evening, June 29, 2025.

According to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred just before 8:00 p.m. on Broadway, near the intersection of State Route 94 and State Route 125.

A 28-year-old man driving a Chevrolet Silverado was reportedly traveling west in the eastbound lanes of Broadway when he collided with a Ford Explorer near Sweetwater Road.

Deputies responded to find the suspect outside his severely damaged vehicle and noted a strong odor of alcohol. Two open containers of alcohol and a nitrous oxide canister were recovered at the scene.

The SUV’s driver and one passenger were transported to the hospital, where the passenger was pronounced dead. The victim’s identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

The suspect was arrested on suspicion of DUI and vehicular manslaughter and was taken to a trauma center.

The investigation is ongoing.

How DUI Accident Victim Lawyers In Lemon Grove Can Help Victims And Their Families

A crash caused by a suspected impaired driver can leave victims and their families dealing with serious injuries, emotional trauma, or the sudden loss of a loved one. In these difficult situations, DUI accident victim lawyers in Lemon Grove can offer guidance by helping families navigate their legal rights and options.

Attorneys often begin by collecting key information about the crash. This may include reviewing law enforcement reports, securing witness accounts, and examining any available surveillance or dashcam footage. They may also coordinate with investigators to clarify how the collision happened and whether impairment played a role.

For victims who are injured, lawyers can help organize medical documentation, assess long-term care needs, and calculate costs tied to treatment and recovery. In fatal cases, attorneys can assist families in understanding whether a wrongful death claim may be appropriate based on the circumstances.

Legal teams may also handle communication with insurance companies to protect clients from pressure or low settlement offers. Their role is to provide support and clarity so that victims and families can focus on healing while exploring their legal options.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a DUI-related crash, you can speak with a member of our team at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form to learn more about the next steps.

What To Do After An Accident Involving A Suspected DUI Driver

Being involved in a crash where impaired driving may be a factor can be overwhelming. While every situation is different, the steps below may help you stay focused and protect your well-being and potential legal rights. These are general suggestions and are not requirements.

Call Emergency Services
If anyone appears to be hurt, calling 911 can help ensure that medical assistance and law enforcement arrive to assess the situation.
Move To A Safer Location If Safe To Do So
If your vehicle is operational and it seems safe, moving it out of traffic may help reduce further danger to yourself and others.
Document The Scene
Taking photos of the vehicles, roadway, and any injuries may help preserve important details. Writing down your memories of the incident while they are fresh could also be helpful later.
Exchange Information With Others Involved
Gathering names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plates, and insurance details from all drivers involved may be useful.
Avoid Making Statements About Fault
It may be best to avoid discussing responsibility for the crash at the scene, especially if alcohol or drugs are suspected.
Seek A Medical Evaluation
Even if you do not feel injured, getting checked by a healthcare provider may help identify issues that are not immediately visible.
Organize Records And Receipts
Keeping documents such as medical reports, repair invoices, and any out-of-pocket expenses may be helpful for insurance or legal purposes.
Contact A DUI Accident Lawyer
Lawyers who handle DUI-related accidents can explain your rights and offer guidance on possible next steps, including how to approach insurance matters or legal claims.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

In 2020, crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers caused 11,654 deaths in the United States. This means that about 30 percent of all traffic-related deaths that year were connected to alcohol. Compared to 2019, this number increased by over 14 percent. On average, 32 people die every day in alcohol-related crashes. That works out to one death every 45 minutes.

The financial toll of these crashes was also very high. In total, the estimated cost of crash deaths involving alcohol-impaired drivers reached about $123.3 billion in 2020. These costs included medical bills and the estimated value of the lives lost.

Although it is difficult to know exactly how many crashes are caused by drug-impaired driving each year, some studies have provided helpful insights. One study looked at 4,243 drivers who were seriously injured and treated at trauma centers between September 2019 and July 2021. More than half of these drivers tested positive for alcohol and/or drugs. The substances found most often included alcohol, marijuana, opioids, stimulants, and sedatives.

This information shows that many serious crashes involve drivers who were under the influence of alcohol or drugs. That’s why learning about the risks of impaired driving is so important for everyone on the road.