San Bernardino County, CA – A suspected DUI driver caused a tragic crash in Apple Valley, leaving one person dead and another hospitalized, authorities report. The violent collision has raised concerns about alcohol-impaired driving and road safety in the area.
Crash Details
The incident occurred on Saturday, September 20, near Kiowa Road and Kiowa Place around 11:35 p.m., according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBCSD).
Preliminary investigations indicate that 23-year-old Exon Herrera Hernandez, of Apple Valley, was driving a Nissan Altima behind a Hummer H2 when he rear-ended the SUV at high speed. The impact forced the Hummer off the road, causing it to roll over.
Deputies reported that the force of the collision caused severe injuries to both the driver and passenger of the Hummer. Emergency responders arrived on the scene quickly to provide medical assistance and transport the victims to local hospitals.
Victims
The driver of the Hummer, identified only as a 44-year-old man, succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital. Authorities have withheld further personal details pending family notification.
The passenger, Salvador Rubio Tamayo, 22, of Victorville, sustained serious injuries but remains in stable condition. Both victims were reported to have suffered major trauma due to the severity of the rollover.
Suspect Arrested
Hernandez was later determined to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. As per KTLA, he was taken into custody and booked on charges of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated with gross negligence, a serious felony under California law.
Authorities noted that cases like this often carry significant legal consequences, including long-term prison sentences and fines. The SBCSD emphasized that alcohol-impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatalities on California roads, underscoring the importance of responsible behavior behind the wheel.
Ongoing Investigation
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Investigators are examining factors such as speed, alcohol levels, and roadway conditions to determine the full scope of the incident.
No additional information has been released while the investigation is ongoing. Residents in the area are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious driving behaviors to local authorities.
Community Safety Reminder
Law enforcement officials stress the importance of safe driving and encourage the public to:
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Always wear seatbelts and follow traffic laws
- Report reckless or impaired drivers immediately
These measures are critical in preventing accidents and protecting both drivers and pedestrians.
Share your thoughts: What steps can communities take to reduce DUI-related crashes and ensure safer roads? Comment below to join the discussion.
