Two Dead, Driver Arrested in Suspected DUI Crash on I-8 Near Winterhaven

WINTERHAVEN — Two people were killed and a driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence following a single-vehicle crash early Tuesday morning on Interstate 8, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The crash was reported at approximately 4:17 a.m. west of Dunaway Road. CHP investigators said a 59-year-old woman was driving a 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche eastbound in the number one lane when she lost control of the vehicle for reasons still under investigation.

The vehicle overturned in the roadway and rolled several times before coming to rest on its wheels in the center median. Both passengers — a 70-year-old man and an unidentified adult woman — were ejected and pronounced dead at the scene. The Imperial County Coroner’s Office has taken custody of the victims, who were assigned case numbers 25-147 and 25-148.

The driver sustained moderate injuries and was transported by ambulance to Desert Regional Medical Center. CHP officials noted she was the only person in the vehicle wearing a seatbelt. The Avalanche’s airbags deployed during the crash.

After further investigation at the scene, officers arrested the driver on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs. The names of the deceased and the driver are being withheld pending notification of family members.

In a statement following the collision, CHP urged drivers to take precautions to avoid impaired driving. “The California Highway Patrol wants to remind the motoring public a DUI crash or arrest is preventable. Designate a sober driver, use public transportation, call a taxi, use a ride share company, or stay where you are for the night. A DUI could cost you your license, freedom, life or the life of another.”

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the CHP