Santa Ana, California – A devastating wrong-way collision in Santa Ana claimed the lives of two people and left several others injured Monday evening, according to local authorities.
The crash occurred around 6:40 p.m. in the 2200 block of South Main Street, as reported by the Santa Ana Police Department.
According to investigators, Jorge Delgado, 29, was behind the wheel of a BMW and traveling at a dangerously high speed in the wrong direction when he crashed head-on into another vehicle heading southbound on Main Street. The victim in the other vehicle was identified as 32-year-old Leticia Alvarado.
The force of the impact caused Alvarado’s car to spin out and collide with at least two additional vehicles, officers said.
Both Delgado and Alvarado, the drivers involved in the initial crash, were pronounced dead at the scene.
Relatives of Alvarado shared that she had just left work and was on her way home. She worked as a senior paralegal at a law firm in Orange County.
“Lety was a truly special person. She left us far too soon and will never be forgotten,” said her brother Erick Ruiz in a statement. “She was selfless, warm-hearted, and always prioritized others. She had a unique way of making everyone feel welcome. She was an incredible sister, wife, and daughter.”
Five additional individuals sustained minor injuries and were taken to local hospitals in stable condition, police confirmed.
Witnesses reported that the crash was unlike anything they had ever experienced.
“The noise was overwhelming—it didn’t sound like a regular crash, it was incredibly loud,” said Edward Ibanez, who was inside his apartment nearby when the collision occurred.
Authorities initially suspected that the gray sedan may have been involved in a street race, but they have since ruled that out. Investigators are now working to determine whether alcohol or drug impairment played a role.
Officer Natalie Garcia, a public information officer for the Santa Ana Police Department, stated that surveillance video from nearby businesses captured Delgado driving at high speeds before the crash, swerving around other vehicles as he approached the area near Main and Warner.
“We’re aware that video footage of the crash is circulating online. If anyone has additional evidence or information, we ask that they contact us,” said Officer Garcia.
The Santa Ana Police Department can be reached at (714) 245-8665.
Source: CBS News
Can Families Seek Wrongful Death Compensation If the At-Fault Driver Dies Too?
Yes, families can still pursue wrongful death compensation even if the at-fault driver also died in the crash. In California, a wrongful death claim is filed against the estate of the negligent party, not the individual personally. That means surviving family members can still hold the responsible party accountable through their insurance or estate assets.
This situation is common in head-on collisions, where both drivers may suffer fatal injuries. If evidence shows that the deceased at-fault driver caused the crash—through reckless driving, impairment, or another negligent act—their insurance provider or estate may still be liable for damages. Compensation can cover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, emotional distress, and more.
Working with experienced wrongful death attorneys and head-on collision attorneys is crucial for navigating the legal process, especially when dealing with deceased defendants or complicated insurance claims. If you’re searching for a personal injury lawyer near me in California, help is available.Call Megeredchian Law today at (866) 359-0807 for a free, confidential consultation. Our legal team is available 24/7 to guide your family through every step of the wrongful death claim process.