[07-18-2025] Napa County, CA – Juvenile Killed, Two Injured in Suspected DUI Head-On Crash in Pope Valley

A juvenile was killed and two others were injured in a suspected DUI head-on collision in Pope Valley, Napa County, on Friday afternoon, July 18, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 4:40 p.m. on Chiles Pope Valley Road near Barnett Road.

The vehicles involved were a 2013 Nissan Sentra and a 2010 Toyota Corolla, the latter occupied by the juvenile victim.

CHP reported that the Toyota driver, identified as Aaron A., sustained major injuries and was airlifted to a nearby hospital. He was later placed under arrest for suspected driving under the influence. Authorities have not disclosed the relationship between the Toyota driver and the deceased juvenile.

The driver of the Sentra sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The incident remains under active investigation.

Contact Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers in Napa County, CA

Crashes involving suspected impaired driving can leave individuals and families dealing with overwhelming consequences. When serious injuries or loss of life occur, questions often arise about what steps can be taken next.

Our Napa County DUI accident victim lawyers assist with organizing important information, communicating with insurers, and explaining the legal process. Support may include reviewing accident reports, medical records, and other documentation relevant to the case.

If you would like to speak with someone about your situation, call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form to begin a free initial consultation.

Steps to Take After a DUI-Related Crash in Napa County

After a serious DUI-related crash, it can be difficult to know what to do next, especially when injuries are involved or the driver responsible is arrested. The steps below can help you stay informed, protect important information, and prepare for the challenges that may follow.

1. Call 911 Immediately
   Contact emergency services right away. Report injuries and let them know if you suspect another driver may be impaired. First responders will assist at the scene and create an official report.
2. Prioritize Medical Attention
   Seek medical care as soon as possible. Even if symptoms are not immediately obvious, injuries may develop later. Medical records are also important for any future insurance or legal matters.
3. Cooperate With Law Enforcement
   Share accurate information with officers, including what you saw or heard. If you notice signs of impaired driving, such as swerving or speeding, let officers know clearly and calmly.
4. Gather Details at the Scene
   If you are physically able, take photos of the damage, roadway, skid marks, license plates, and any injuries. Write down names, phone numbers, and insurance information from others involved.
5. Speak With Witnesses
   Independent witness accounts can help clarify how the crash occurred. If someone saw the collision, ask for their name and contact information.
6. Avoid Speaking With The Other Driver’s Insurance Without Help
   Their insurer may reach out to request a statement. Wait to discuss the crash until you have reviewed your rights or spoken with legal professionals.
7. Consult With DUI Accident Lawyers
   Lawyers familiar with DUI-related crashes can help organize evidence, interpret reports, and offer guidance tailored to your situation. They can also assist with communicating with insurers.

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.