Fatal Wrong-Way DUI Crash on I-5 in Kings County

Fatal Wrong-Way Crash on I-5 in Kings County; One Dead, DUI Arrest Reported

A devastating wrong-way collision on Interstate 5 in Kings County claimed the life of a Bakersfield man on Saturday evening, October 25, 2025. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash occurred at approximately 8:30 p.m. on the northbound side of I-5, just north of Utica Avenue. Investigators report that a Chevrolet Suburban was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes when it collided with two vehicles driving in the correct direction. The suspected wrong-way driver, identified by authorities as 21-year-old Josue Gutierrez Garcia of Hesperia, sustained minor injuries and was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. The CHP investigation remains active.

What Investigators Report So Far

Based on preliminary findings released by CHP:
- The Chevrolet Suburban was traveling the wrong way—southbound in the northbound lanes of I-5—prior to the crash.
- The Suburban first struck a Chevrolet Malibu head-on. The driver of the Malibu, a man from Bakersfield, suffered major injuries and later died as a result of the collision.
- After the initial impact, the front of the Suburban struck the left side of a Subaru Legacy driven by a 51-year-old Pleasanton man. Authorities confirmed the Subaru driver was not injured.
- The Suburban’s driver, Garcia, sustained minor injuries and was taken into custody on suspicion of DUI.
- Investigators are working to determine the sequence of events, speed, lighting conditions, possible impairment, and any contributing roadway or environmental factors.

As with all ongoing investigations, details may be updated as evidence is evaluated, witness statements are collected, vehicle data is analyzed, and toxicology results are reviewed.

Why Wrong-Way and DUI Crashes Are So Catastrophic

Wrong-way collisions are among the deadliest types of crashes because they often occur at high speeds and involve head-on impacts. Nighttime visibility, fatigue, impairment, and unfamiliarity with highway ramps are frequent contributors. When alcohol is involved, reaction times slow, judgment is impaired, and drivers are more likely to enter ramps or lanes incorrectly. On major corridors like I-5—where traffic moves quickly and volumes are high—even a few seconds of wrong-way travel can create a multi-vehicle, multi-victim disaster.

Potential Criminal Exposure Under California Law

While the precise charges in any given case depend on the facts and prosecutorial decisions, several California laws commonly come into play in serious DUI-related collisions:
- Driving under the influence causing injury (Vehicle Code 23153): Makes it unlawful to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, cause bodily injury to another person.
- Vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated (Penal Code 191.5): In fatal cases involving DUI, prosecutors may consider charges ranging from vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated to gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, depending on the evidence regarding impairment, negligence, and recklessness.
- Additional enhancements and penalties can apply if great bodily injury is proven, if prior DUI convictions exist, or if aggravating factors are present.

It is important to remember that an arrest is not a conviction. Accused individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

‍

Avian Law Group extends our deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones affected by this tragic wrong-way collision. Accidents of this nature are often sudden, catastrophic, and preventable, leaving a lasting impact on families and communities.

Our firm is committed to advocating for victims of negligent and reckless driving. We strive to provide compassionate legal guidance while pursuing justice and accountability for those affected by such devastating incidents.

If you or someone you love has been impacted by a serious or fatal accident, contact Avian Law Group for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and seek the justice and support your family deserves.