Bakersfield, California — A 61-year-old man was killed in a fatal DUI crash on the northbound I-5 late Saturday night. Authorities have arrested a 21-year-old Wasco resident in connection with the tragic accident. The incident serves as a grim reminder of how one reckless decision can alter the lives of multiple people forever.
Deadly Collision on NB I-5 Leads to DUI Arrest
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash occurred around 11:10 p.m. on November 8, 2025, along northbound Interstate 5, just north of Templin Highway. Responding officers discovered a white Jeep Cherokee whose driver, later identified as 61-year-old Jose Bulmaro Alvarez, had been ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene.
The other driver, identified as Martin Enrique Cazares, 21, of Wasco, was driving a silver Toyota Camry. After an on-site investigation, CHP determined that Cazares was under the influence and at fault. He was arrested and booked into the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Station in Santa Clarita on charges of felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter.
Legal Options After a DUI Crash
When a DUI crash leads to loss of life or serious injury, California law allows victims and their families to pursue justice through civil and criminal proceedings. Beyond the criminal charges faced by the impaired driver, families can take independent legal action to ensure accountability and recognition of their suffering.
Victims may seek justice through:
- Wrongful death or personal injury claims against the at-fault driver
- Civil court proceedings to hold negligent parties financially responsible
- Legal representation to navigate insurance disputes and liability issues
- Evidence collection and investigation to strengthen the case and prove negligence
These steps not only help families find closure but also reinforce the message that impaired driving has serious, life-altering consequences under California law.
Here to Support You Through Difficult Times
At Farahi Law Firm, our Bakersfield personal injury lawyers understand the devastation families face after a DUI crash on the northbound I-5. We provide compassionate legal guidance and fight to secure the compensation victims deserve.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a similar tragedy, contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you get the medical care you need and the money you deserve.
