[07-19-2025] San Bernardino County, CA – 49-Year-old Man Killed in Suspected DUI Crash on Old Woman Springs Road in Johnson Valley

A 49-year-old man was killed in a suspected DUI crash involving two vehicles in Johnson Valley, San Bernardino County, on Saturday morning, July 19, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision occurred at approximately 1:50 a.m. on Old Woman Springs Road.

A Ford F-150 driven by 31-year-old Seth F. of Fountain Valley was traveling south on Old Woman Springs Road when it reportedly crossed over double yellow lines into the northbound lane and struck a Honda Civic.

CHP reported that the impact caused major damage to both vehicles. The driver of the Honda, identified as 49-year-old Michael L. of Wildomar, was airlifted to Desert Valley Hospital in Victorville, where he was later pronounced dead.

Authorities said Seth F was determined to be driving under the influence. He was arrested on suspicion of DUI, murder, and vehicular manslaughter and was booked at the West Valley Detention Center without bail.

The crash is still under investigation.

Contact Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers In San Bernardino County, CA

Crashes involving suspected impaired drivers can have tragic outcomes, often leaving families overwhelmed by loss, unanswered questions, and legal uncertainty. When a collision results in the death of a loved one, the emotional and financial impact may be devastating.

DUI accident victim lawyers in San Bernardino County can help surviving family members understand what legal steps might be available. An attorney may assist with reviewing official reports, preserving key evidence, and offering guidance about possible wrongful death claims. While every case is different, having legal support during this time might help ease the burden and bring clarity to a deeply painful situation.

If your family has been affected by a suspected DUI crash, you may contact us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

Steps To Take After A Fatal DUI Accident

Losing a loved one in a crash involving a suspected impaired driver can be heartbreaking and overwhelming. Families may be left facing not only grief but also complex legal and financial matters they did not expect. Taking certain steps early on may help protect your family’s rights and provide clarity in the weeks that follow.

1. Request The Official Crash Report
   After a fatal DUI crash, law enforcement typically conducts a full investigation. Obtaining a copy of the official report may help your family understand how the incident was documented and what findings were made at the scene. This document might become an important part of any legal review.
2. Collect And Safeguard Records
   Gathering medical records, the death certificate, and any documentation from the hospital or coroner’s office can be helpful. If available, preserving evidence such as photographs, witness information, or communications related to the crash may support your understanding of what happened.
3. Avoid Quick Settlements Or Agreements
   Insurance representatives may contact the family early on. While these conversations can seem routine, it’s important to avoid signing anything or agreeing to terms without fully understanding the legal implications. Taking time before making decisions may help protect your long-term interests.
4. Seek Legal Guidance
   Speaking with a DUI accident lawyer can help your family understand what rights may be available under California law. An attorney may assist with reviewing evidence, preserving time-sensitive information, and helping determine whether a wrongful death claim is appropriate. While no outcome is promised, early legal insight might ease the process during an extremely difficult time.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

Drunk driving continues to be a major cause of deadly crashes in the United States. In 2021, about 31 percent of all traffic deaths involved a driver who had been drinking. That means nearly one out of every three fatal crashes was linked to alcohol use.

Between 2020 and 2021, the number of people killed in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers went up by 14.2 percent, rising from 11,718 to 13,384 deaths. In comparison, total traffic deaths increased by 10.1 percent during the same time period.

In 2021, there were around 60,904 drivers involved in deadly car crashes. Of those, an estimated 12,762 drivers (21 percent) had a blood alcohol concentration over the legal limit.

Motorcycle riders had the highest percentage of alcohol involvement in fatal crashes. About 28 percent of motorcyclists in deadly collisions had been drinking, followed by 24 percent of passenger car drivers, 20 percent of light truck drivers, and 3 percent of large truck drivers.

Tragically, alcohol-related crashes also affected children. Out of the 1,184 children aged 14 and younger who died in traffic crashes in 2021, 25 percent (294 children) were killed in crashes involving drunk drivers.