Pedestrian Killed in DUI Crash on Travis Boulevard

Fairfield Pedestrian Killed in Suspected DUI Crash on Travis Boulevard Overpass

Early Morning Collision Under Investigation; Know Your Rights After a DUI-Related Pedestrian Crash

A tragic collision in Fairfield early Tuesday morning, November 18, 2025, claimed the life of a pedestrian in the westbound lanes of the Travis Boulevard overpass near the off-ramp of eastbound Interstate 80. According to the Fairfield Police Department, the crash occurred around 1:30 a.m. Emergency responders from the Fairfield Police Department and Fairfield Fire Department arrived on scene and pronounced the pedestrian deceased. The victim has not yet been publicly identified pending notification of next of kin.

Police arrested a 35-year-old Fairfield resident, identified as Kyle D., at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence. Authorities reported that the driver remained at the location following the crash. The investigation is ongoing, and no additional details regarding potential charges, toxicology results, or contributing factors have been released at this time.

This incident highlights the extreme dangers impaired driving poses to pedestrians, particularly during nighttime hours when visibility can be reduced and traffic patterns near overpasses and freeway ramps are more complex. While law enforcement continues to examine the circumstances of this collision, families impacted by DUI-related crashes often face urgent questions about their rights, the investigative process, and the steps they can take to protect their interests.

Understanding DUI-Related Pedestrian Crashes in California

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users. Collisions on or near freeway overpasses and ramps often involve higher speeds, challenging sightlines, limited lighting, and sudden lane changes or merges. When alcohol or drugs are suspected, the risks increase dramatically. In California, driving under the influence is not only a criminal offense but can also form the basis for civil liability when injuries or fatalities occur.

Key legal concepts that may apply in DUI-related pedestrian collisions include:
- Negligence per se: Violating DUI laws can establish a presumption of negligence in civil cases, shifting the focus to damages and causation.
- Wrongful death and survival actions: Surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim for losses such as funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and loss of financial support. The decedent’s estate may also pursue a survival action for certain damages the person suffered prior to passing.
- Punitive damages: In cases involving egregious conduct, such as intoxicated driving, California law may allow punitive damages to punish and deter wrongful behavior.
- Dram shop limitations: California generally limits liability for those who serve alcohol to adults, but furnishing alcohol to an obviously intoxicated minor can create potential civil exposure for the provider under specific circumstances.

Immediate Steps Families Can Consider After a DUI-Related Pedestrian Crash

In the devastating aftermath of a fatal collision, families can feel overwhelmed. While every situation is unique, the following steps may help protect rights and preserve crucial evidence:
- Obtain the police report: Request the incident report from Fairfield Police Department when available. This may include diagrams, witness statements, and preliminary findings.
- Preserve evidence: Save photos, video, and any physical evidence related to the incident. If possible, capture images of the roadway, lighting, signage, skid marks, debris, and vehicle positions. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras can be time-sensitive.
- Identify and contact witnesses: Collect names and contact information for anyone who may have observed the crash or events leading up to it.
- Keep records: Document all expenses and impacts, including funeral arrangements, counseling costs, lost income, and other financial losses.
- Be cautious with insurance communications: Insurance adjusters may reach out quickly. Consider seeking legal guidance before providing recorded statements.
- Explore benefits and coverage: Pedestrians may be covered under uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) provisions from their own auto policies or a household member’s policy. Medical payments coverage (MedPay) may also apply in some cases.
- Understand criminal versus civil proceedings: A criminal DUI case and a civil claim proceed separately. A criminal case focuses on guilt and penalties, while a civil case addresses compensation for losses. Outcomes in one may affect the other, but families do not need to wait for the criminal case to conclude before exploring civil options.

How Investigations Typically Unfold

Serious collisions typically prompt a thorough investigation by law enforcement and, in some cases, specialized reconstruction teams. Investigations may involve:
- Scene analysis: Measurements, photographs, and mapping of the crash location, including lighting conditions and roadway design.
- Vehicle inspections: Examination of vehicle damage, event data recorders (EDR), and safety systems.
- Toxicology and sobriety assessments: Field sobriety tests, breath tests, and blood analysis, subject to evidentiary rules and timelines.
- Cell phone and digital evidence: Where appropriate, investigators may seek records related to potential distraction.
- Roadway and infrastructure review: Overpass design, signage, roadway markings, and signal timing may be evaluated to determine if additional safety factors played a role.

When public entities may be involved—for example, due to roadway design, lighting, or signage issues—special deadlines apply. In California, claims against government entities generally require a notice of claim within six months of the incident. Consulting counsel promptly can be critical to preserving these rights.

This tragic pedestrian fatality in Fairfield, caused by an alleged DUI driver, is a heartbreaking reminder of the irreversible harm impaired driving inflicts on families and communities. A single reckless decision can take an innocent life, shatter loved ones, and leave lasting trauma for everyone affected. As investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to this deadly crash, the victim’s family now faces an unimaginable loss and the difficult path toward healing and justice.

At Avian Law Group, we stand firmly with families impacted by fatal pedestrian collisions and DUI-related crashes. These cases require swift action, careful investigation, and a deep understanding of both criminal proceedings and civil rights. Our team is dedicated to holding negligent drivers accountable and ensuring that grieving families receive the answers, support, and compensation they are entitled to under California law.

If your family has been affected by a fatal DUI or pedestrian collision, Avian Law Group is here to provide compassionate guidance, experienced legal representation, and unwavering support during this incredibly difficult time.