Driver Arrested After Deadly DUI Crash Near San Diego

A tragic incident on State Route 76 in the Pala area resulted in the deaths of two individuals following a suspected driving under the influence (DUI) crash. The accident occurred during the early morning hours of September 28, 2023, when a 21-year-old man lost control of his vehicle, leading to a head-on collision.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the driver, identified as Antonio Albert Gonzalez III, was operating a white Dodge Durango when he veered into oncoming traffic. The Durango crashed into a white Honda Civic driven by Jesus Contreras, a 54-year-old resident of Apple Valley, California. Both drivers, along with a 25-year-old passenger in the Durango, sustained significant injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital.

The incident had a devastating outcome, as the right-front passenger of the Honda, who was the wife of Contreras, was pronounced dead at the scene. Following the collision, the severity of Contreras’ injuries led to his death on October 23, 2023, as confirmed by the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office.

In the aftermath of the crash, Gonzalez was arrested and faces several serious charges, including felony DUI, felony gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and homicide-related charges. This incident highlights the grave consequences of impaired driving and underscores the ongoing issues surrounding road safety and DUI offenses.

As investigations continue, authorities emphasize the importance of responsible driving and the need for public awareness regarding the dangers of driving under the influence.