CASTAIC, Calif. — Authorities are investigating a fatal crash that claimed the life of 60-year-old Bulmaro Alvarez Chavez on Saturday night after he was ejected from his vehicle during a collision involving an alleged drunk driver on the northbound 5 Freeway near Templin Highway.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Newhall Area Office, officers responded to reports of a multi-vehicle crash around 11:10 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered Chavez, the driver of a white Jeep Cherokee, who had been ejected from his vehicle and suffered fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The driver of a silver Toyota Camry, identified as 21-year-old Martin Enrique Cazares of Wasco, was found to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the collision. Following an on-scene investigation, Cazares was arrested and later booked into the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station on charges of felony DUI and felony vehicular manslaughter.
CHP officials expressed deep sorrow over the incident, emphasizing the tragic and preventable nature of DUI-related crashes.
“This tragic crash is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of driving under the influence,” said Lt. Munoz, acting commander of the CHP Newhall Area. “One person’s reckless decision has cost an innocent life. We remain committed to removing impaired drivers from our roadways and protecting our communities from such heartbreak.”
The investigation into the fatal crash remains ongoing.