Napa County, CA – A 53-year-old man with a history of three prior DUI convictions has been formally charged after a devastating crash in California’s wine country left six people dead over the weekend, according to the Napa County District Attorney’s Office.
Incident Details
Authorities say Norberto “Beto” Celerino, a resident of San Joaquin County, was allegedly intoxicated while driving a van carrying seven farmworkers. The vehicle veered off Pope Valley Road and crashed into a tree.
The violent impact killed six passengers and left both Celerino and one surviving passenger with severe injuries. Photos from the scene show the van mangled, with the roof nearly sheared off.
Victims Identified
Officials confirmed that all six victims were Mexican nationals and residents of Stockton, CA. They have been identified as:
- Aaron Ruiz Ruiz, 39
- Beymar Reynosa Rodriguez, 32
- Demetrio Celerino Francisco, 39
- Pedro Lopez Gomez, 57
- Loreto Ricardo Hernandez, 42
- Fernando Silverio, 34
Suspect’s Background
Prosecutors revealed that Celerino, who also goes by Norberto Celerino Villalva, Grabien Martines, and Roberto Savaringo-Diabla, has a troubling history of impaired driving.
- August 2020 – DUI conviction in San Joaquin County
- September 2024 – DUI conviction in San Joaquin County
- One additional DUI conviction older than 10 years
At the time of the crash, Celerino was on probation for prior DUI offenses, as per KTLA.
“Celerino also has a third DUI conviction on his record that was not included in today’s complaint as it is older than 10 years and cannot statutorily be used to enhance the current charges,” the DA’s office said.
Charges Filed
The Napa County DA’s Office announced multiple charges, including:
- Six counts of murder
- Six felony counts of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated
- One felony count of DUI causing injury with two or more prior DUI convictions
Special allegations include:
- Inflicting great bodily injury with a motor vehicle
- Crimes involving violence, cruelty, and callousness
- Escalating seriousness compared to prior crimes
- Probation violations and poor performance on probation
Ongoing Investigation
The California Highway Patrol and Napa County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene. Both Celerino and the surviving passenger remain hospitalized as the investigation continues. Prosecutors have declined to release further details while preparing their case.
What are your thoughts on repeat DUI offenders like Celerino being allowed back on the road? Share your views in the comments below.
