[07-21-2025] Mendocino County, CA – One Person Killed in Head-On DUI Crash on Highway 101 Near Laytonville

One person was killed in a head-on collision on U.S. Highway 101 north of Laytonville, Mendocino County, on Monday afternoon, July 21, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash was reported at approximately 2:40 p.m. near mile marker 76.

Authorities said 43-year-old Justino F. was driving a Porsche northbound with two children inside when the vehicle crossed over solid double yellow lines and collided head-on with a southbound Honda.

The Honda driver, who was the only occupant of the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene. The identity of the deceased has not been released.

The two children in the Porsche were not injured and were released to a relative at the scene. Justino F. was arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter, driving under the influence, and child endangerment. He was booked into Mendocino County Jail with bail set at $250,000.

CHP continues to investigate the incident.

Contact Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers In Mendocino County, CA

A crash involving a suspected impaired driver may leave families grieving and unsure of what to do next. When a loved one is lost or seriously injured in a DUI-related incident, the emotional and financial toll can be immense. Understanding what legal options may be available can help protect your rights and provide a path forward.

DUI accident victim lawyers in Mendocino County can help guide you through the aftermath of a serious crash. An attorney may assist with preserving key evidence, reviewing official reports, and helping you determine whether civil claims for damages may apply. Support during this time can ease some of the uncertainty and help you focus on healing.

To speak with someone about your situation, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

Steps To Take After A Fatal DUI Head-On Collision

If your family has been affected by a DUI-related crash, taking the following steps may help protect your rights and support any potential legal claim:

1. Request The CHP Crash Report
   Once available, obtain the California Highway Patrol report, which may include key information about the suspected DUI, collision details, and contributing factors.
2. Preserve Evidence And Personal Belongings
   If any photos, vehicle debris, or damaged property were collected at the scene, try to store them safely. These may support an investigation or civil case.
3. Keep Track Of Expenses
   Document all funeral, medical, and related costs. These records may help establish financial impact and support compensation efforts.
4. Avoid Early Contact With Insurance Companies
   You are not obligated to provide statements or accept any settlements before consulting with legal counsel. Early offers may not reflect the full scope of your losses.
5. Speak With DUI Accident Victim Attorneys
   An attorney can help investigate the crash, communicate with authorities, and explain what legal remedies may apply. This guidance may help protect your interests as the investigation continues.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

In 2022, alcohol-impaired crashes resulted in 13,524 fatalities nationwide. California experienced 1,479 deaths from alcohol-impaired traffic accidents during the same year. While the number of alcohol-impaired fatalities decreased slightly by 0.7% across the country from 2021 to 2022, the state of California saw a 1.8% increase in such fatalities over the same period. These figures highlight the ongoing concerns about impaired driving and its impact on public safety, underscoring the need for continued efforts to reduce alcohol-related crashes and fatalities.