One Dead, Three Injured in Suspected DUI Crash on SR-76

A suspected driving under the influence (DUI) crash on State Route 76 in the Pala area resulted in one fatality and three serious injuries early Sunday morning. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that the incident occurred at approximately 01:45 on March 10, 2024.

According to the CHP, a 21-year-old man from Pala, identified as Antonio Albert Gonzalez III, was driving a white Dodge Durango when he lost control of the vehicle. The Durango veered into the opposing lane and collided head-on with a white Honda Civic driven by a 54-year-old man from Apple Valley, California.

The collision left the driver of the Dodge, his 25-year-old passenger, and the Honda driver with significant injuries, prompting their transport to local hospitals for treatment. Tragically, the right-front passenger in the Honda was pronounced dead at the scene.

In the wake of the crash, Gonzalez was arrested and faces serious charges, including felony DUI, felony gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and homicide-related charges. The CHP is urging anyone with information about the incident to reach out to the CHP Oceanside Area Office at 760-643-3400.

The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding this tragic event. The community mourns the loss of life and the impact on those involved.