Sudden Veer Leads to Violent Impact (Image Credits: Yourcentralvalley.com)
Prunedale, Monterey County – A single-vehicle collision into a roadside tree left two young children with major injuries and prompted the arrest of their driver on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Sudden Veer Leads to Violent Impact
The incident unfolded around 4:40 p.m. on Sunday, February 25, on eastbound State Route 156 east of Cathedral Oaks Road.[1][2] California Highway Patrol officers responded to reports of a gray Kia SUV that had veered sharply off the roadway. The driver executed an unsafe turning movement, crossed into the westbound lane, and ultimately struck a tree with significant force.[1]
Investigators determined that impairment played a key role in the mishap. The vehicle carried four occupants at the time, turning a routine drive into a scene of chaos. Response teams arrived swiftly to secure the area and attend to those hurt.
Severe Injuries Prompt Rapid Medical Evacuation
Among the passengers, a 6-year-old boy and a 7-month-old girl sustained the most critical harm. Both children required immediate airlift to a Bay Area hospital for advanced care.[1][2] Their conditions underscored the vulnerability of young passengers in such accidents.
The 21-year-old female passenger from Fresno and the 25-year-old driver, Daniel Anthony Santos, also from Fresno, received treatment for minor injuries at a local facility.[2] Medical personnel prioritized the children’s transport, highlighting the gravity of their situations. Here are the reported injuries:
- 6-year-old boy: major injuries, airlifted.
- 7-month-old girl: major injuries, airlifted.
- 21-year-old woman: minor injuries, local hospital.
- Driver Daniel Anthony Santos: minor injuries, local hospital.
Swift Arrest on DUI Charges
Following evaluation at the hospital, authorities took Santos into custody. He faced charges of driving under the influence and was booked into Monterey County Jail.[1] CHP officers conducted a thorough investigation at the scene, piecing together the moments leading to the crash.
Initial reports from two days prior had flagged alcohol or drugs as potential factors, even before the arrest.[3] This development confirmed suspicions and led to prompt action against the driver.
Investigation Continues Amid Community Concern
CHP maintained control of the crash site into the evening, gathering evidence and witness statements. The case remains active, with officials withholding further details pending full review.[2] Such incidents serve as stark reminders of roadway risks, particularly when families travel together.
Highway 156, a key route through the Prunedale area, sees regular traffic, making safety measures essential. Authorities urged drivers to remain vigilant and avoid impaired operation.
Key Takeaways
- A 25-year-old Fresno man drove a gray Kia SUV that crashed into a tree on SR-156.
- Two children, aged 6 and 7 months, suffered major injuries and were airlifted.
- The driver was arrested for DUI and booked into jail after hospital treatment.
This collision exposed the devastating consequences of impaired driving, sparing no one in the vehicle. As the children recover, the focus shifts to accountability and prevention. What steps can communities take to curb such tragedies? Share your thoughts in the comments.
