Dana Point, CA — A 13-year-old boy on his morning walk to school was tragically killed on Tuesday morning when a suspected drunk driver struck him near a busy intersection in Dana Point, prompting an immediate investigation and an arrest just miles away.
Teen Fatally Struck While Waiting With Brother
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash occurred at approximately 8:15 a.m. near the intersection of Park Lantern and Dana Point Harbor Drive, close to the entrance of Doheny State Beach.
The boy had been standing on a traffic island alongside his younger brother, who witnessed the devastating impact. Authorities said the teen was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Witnesses described a chaotic and heartbreaking scene. By 11:30 a.m., aerial footage from Sky5 showed the intersection sealed off with crime-scene tape, with a small backpack and a pair of shoes left in the roadway — silent reminders of the young life cut short.
Driver Fled but Located Miles Away
Officials confirmed that the driver did not remain at the scene. Instead, he fled, prompting CHP officers to issue an immediate alert to nearby agencies. Within a short time, law enforcement located a white GMC pickup truck approximately two to three miles away in San Juan Capistrano.
Video from the arrest location showed the truck with significant front-end damage and visible issues with the driver’s side wheel, consistent with a severe collision.
The suspect, identified only as a 59-year-old man from Dana Point, was arrested on suspicion of DUI. Authorities have not yet released his name, and additional details about his blood alcohol level or potential prior offenses have not been disclosed.
Community Shocked as Investigation Continues
The tragic death has shaken the Dana Point community, especially families whose children walk the same route to school. The area around Park Lantern and Dana Point Harbor Drive is known for heavy morning traffic as students, beach visitors, and local workers pass through.
Investigators spent hours reconstructing the collision, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing surveillance footage from nearby businesses. CHP officials said they are working to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the crash, including the driver’s speed, impairment level, and whether he attempted to brake before striking the teen.
Motorists were asked to avoid the area for several hours while officers conducted a detailed assessment of the scene.
Family and Community Left Heartbroken
Authorities have not released the victim’s name but confirmed he was walking to a local school with his brother. Counselors are expected to be available on campus to support students and staff affected by the tragedy.
Incidents involving impaired drivers remain a critical safety issue in Orange County. The collision marks yet another heartbreaking reminder of the dangers intoxicated motorists pose — especially near schools and pedestrian-heavy areas.
Local residents have begun calling for additional safety measures at the intersection, such as enhanced crossing signals, increased speed enforcement, and greater patrol presence during school commute hours.
Share Your Thoughts
This heartbreaking case has raised serious community concerns about DUI enforcement and pedestrian safety.
What changes do you think the city should make to protect students? Share your thoughts in the comments — your voice matters.
