[08-09-2025] San Diego County, CA – One Person Killed After Two-Vehicle DUI Crash in Carlsbad

One person died following a two-vehicle DUI collision in Carlsbad early Saturday morning, August 9, 2025.

According to the Carlsbad Police Department, the crash occurred around 5:20 a.m. at the intersection of La Costa Avenue and Piraeus Street.

Authorities stated that a Subaru crossover and a Nissan pickup truck were involved. The driver and sole occupant of the Nissan was transported from the scene and later pronounced deceased at a local hospital.

Police identified the Subaru driver as 33-year-old Philip W. of Oceanside. He was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence, causing injury or death, and vehicular manslaughter. Philip is expected to be booked into the county jail in Vista.

The victim’s identity has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin. Police said alcohol is suspected to be a contributing factor. Authorities continue to investigate the collision.

Contact Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers In Carlsbad, CA

DUI crashes can be especially devastating when they lead to a fatal car accident, leaving families with unexpected expenses and emotional loss. DUI accident victim lawyers can help explain available legal options, review official reports, and preserve important evidence.

Our legal team works with car accident lawyers in Carlsbad to address the specific circumstances of motor vehicle collisions and with Carlsbad personal injury lawyers when serious injuries are involved.

We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not owe attorney fees unless there is a recovery in your case. Case-related costs may still apply. Call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form for a free initial consultation.

What To Do After A DUI Accident In Carlsbad, CA

After a DUI accident, it can be difficult to know what steps to take next. The following actions may help protect your legal rights and preserve important evidence for future claims.

1. Call 911 And Seek Immediate Medical Attention
   Always report the accident to emergency services and seek medical care for any injuries. Even if injuries appear minor, prompt medical attention is important for your health and for documenting the incident.
2. Document The Scene And Injuries
   If it is safe, take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. In cases involving an intersection accident, images of traffic signals or signage should also be captured.
3. Gather Contact Information From Witnesses
   If there were any witnesses to the crash, be sure to collect their names and contact details. Witness statements can provide additional context for the events surrounding the accident.
4. Consult With DUI Accident Victim Attorneys
   A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights, assist with navigating the claims process, and ensure that critical evidence is preserved. Early legal guidance can help ensure that your case is handled properly.

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.