Woman killed in suspected DUI crash in Madera County identified

MADERA COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) — Hours before the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, tragedy struck in Madera.

A memorial continues to grow at the site of the tragic New Year’s Eve crash in Madera County. Balloons, flowers, candles and even debris left from the impact were placed to honor the victims, including 21-year-old Isabella Marlene Nevarez of Madera.

“This is a stark reminder that a bad decision can change or alter not just one life, but multiple lives,” Officer Sergio Moreno, Madera California Highway Patrol.

Scattered debris, a detached axle, an SUV flipped over. A devastating scene was left behind in Madera County Wednesday morning.

The California Highway Patrol says a white SUV was traveling west on Avenue 13 when it ran the stop sign and crashed into the side of a big rig that had the right of way at Road 23. Officers now say the driver was drunk.

“We know that the driver was suspected of driving under the influence and was placed under arrest. However, due to his major life-threatening injuries, he was released to the hospital for care,” says Officer Moreno.

Five people were inside the SUV at the time of the crash, and two were killed.

All passengers in the car were adults and believed to be friends. The investigation has revealed that only one person was wearing a seat belt, and was able to walk away. But, the impact sent the four others flying out of the car.

“One of the things to understand is your body is traveling at the same speed as your vehicle. Let the seatbelt do its job. It’s going to keep you safe. It’s going to keep you inside the vehicle and protect you,” says Officer Moreno.

Authorities have now confirmed the driver was a 31-year-old male, also from Madera, who could face several charges, including felony DUI and manslaughter.

“It must be very hard to get that call on New Year’s Eve-to get the notice that your loved one was in a crash and didn’t make it. Especially when it was 100% preventable if that driver wouldn’t have made that wrongful decision to drive under the influence,” says Officer Moreno.

The driver of the big rig was not injured.

Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing at this time.

Isabella’s family has started a GoFundMe page for anyone looking to help them with her funeral services.

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