San Diego, California — A multi-vehicle I-805 crash in San Diego on Saturday morning resulted in the loss of one life and left multiple individuals injured, highlighting the tragic consequences of impaired driving. The collision, which involved five vehicles, led to a complete closure of the southbound freeway for several hours and has since spurred a DUI arrest and an ongoing investigation by the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Details of the Incident
The multi-vehicle accident occurred at approximately 8:50 a.m. on the southbound side of Interstate 805, just north of 43rd Street. Authorities say that 27-year-old Markus Eugene Turner was behind the wheel of a black Honda sedan when he collided with a silver Toyota sedan that had been stopped on the freeway’s right shoulder.
The force of the initial collision set off a chain reaction:
- Turner’s vehicle hit a blue Honda sedan and a white Toyota sedan in rapid succession.
- Debris from the crash, particularly shattered glass, struck a nearby silver Nissan SUV, causing further damage.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, transporting Turner, his two passengers, and the driver of the blue Honda sedan to a local hospital. Injuries among the survivors ranged from minor to severe. Tragically, the driver of the silver Toyota, who had been stationary on the shoulder, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
After receiving medical treatment, Turner was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and booked into the San Diego County Jail. CHP officials continue to investigate the full sequence of events that led to the fatal I-805 crash in San Diego.
DUI and Multi-Vehicle Accidents in California
California has stringent DUI laws designed to prevent the very type of tragedy witnessed on I-805. Under California Vehicle Code §23152, it is unlawful to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A DUI that results in death can escalate to a felony DUI or even vehicular manslaughter charges, carrying severe penalties including prison time, license suspension, and hefty fines.
Liability in multi-vehicle accidents can be complex, often involving multiple contributing factors. Determining fault typically requires a thorough investigation into:
- Vehicle Positioning: Whether any vehicle, like the one stopped on the shoulder, was parked legally and safely.
- Driver Behavior: The speed and potential impairment of the driver who initiated the crash.
- Road Conditions: Weather, visibility, and road surface during the incident.
For surviving victims and families of the deceased, pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost income, and emotional trauma may require civil litigation separate from the criminal proceedings.
Our Team Can Help
Our hearts go out to the victim and their loved ones affected by the I-805 crash in San Diego. No one should suffer because of another driver’s negligence.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a freeway collision, especially one involving a suspected DUI, we encourage you to speak with our personal injury lawyer in San Diego. We offer free consultations and can help you understand your options during this difficult time.
Call us today for a free case evaluation.
