On July 29, 2025, at approximately 10:50 p.m., the Santa Ana Police Department received multiple reports of a traffic collision near Bristol Street and Segerstrom Avenue.
Officers, along with Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA), responded to the scene and discovered the collision involved a pedestrian and a vehicle.
The pedestrian, later identified as John Valenzuela Luera (66) of Santa Ana, was treated at the scene before being transported by OCFA to a local hospital.
Despite life-saving efforts, John succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
Based on witness statements, John was seen walking in traffic lanes on Bristol St. when a vehicle struck him.
The driver remained at the scene, cooperated with the investigation, and was ultimately arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
The Santa Ana Police Department’s Collision Investigations Unit (CIU) is investigating this incident. Anyone with information about this collision is asked to contact Detective J. Martinez at (714) 245-8207 or the Santa Ana Police Department’s Traffic Division at (714) 245-8200.
Here’s a summary of the potential penalties the suspect could face in the fatal DUI pedestrian collision in Santa Ana:
California DUI Fatality Penalties
- Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated (Penal Code 191.5)
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $1,000, license suspension.
- Felony: 2 to 4 years in prison, fines up to $10,000, longer license suspension.
- Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated
- 4 to 10 years in state prison, fines up to $10,000, 4-year license suspension.
- DUI Murder (Watson Murder)
- If the driver had a prior DUI and was warned of the risks, they could face 15 years to life in prison, plus fines and permanent license revocation.
- Other Consequences
- Restitution to the victim’s family
- Possible civil lawsuit for wrongful death
- Permanent criminal record
- Increased or canceled auto insurance
The exact charge depends on the driver’s prior record, level of intoxication, and whether their actions showed gross negligence. Let me know if you’d like help tracking updates on this case or understanding the legal process.