San Jose, California – The driver involved in a deadly DUI collision on Hwy 85 that killed a woman and a 14-year-old boy has been charged with multiple crimes, including two counts of murder.
The crash occurred on Monday, August 26, when the driver, 39-year-old Duncan McQuarrie, allegedly drove a white Toyota Tacoma in the wrong direction on northbound Highway 85 near Saratoga Avenue in South San Jose. His vehicle collided head-on with a Tesla, resulting in the tragic deaths of both occupants.
The victims have been identified as 47-year-old Rebecca Olsen, a resident of San Jose, and a 14-year-old boy who was in the passenger seat of the Tesla at the time of the crash. According to the Santa Clara County Coroner’s Office, Olsen was pronounced dead at the scene, while the boy also succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
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McQuarrie, who was reportedly driving under the influence at the time of the accident, was released from the hospital on Thursday. Later that day, he was taken into custody and booked at the Santa Clara County Jail on multiple charges. These include two counts of murder, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, reckless driving, and DUI causing injury.
This wrong-way accident in San Jose has left the local community in shock, with many questioning how such a tragedy could have been avoided. Authorities emphasized the severity of driving under the influence and the irreversible consequences it can have on innocent lives. The investigation remains ongoing, and McQuarrie is expected to face significant legal penalties.
Our deepest condolences go out to the families of Rebecca Olsen and the young boy whose lives were tragically cut short. This heart-wrenching event serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of impaired and reckless driving. Let us remember to prioritize the safety of others on the road to prevent future tragedies.
