Repeat DUI Offender Arrested After Fatal Crash in Santa Rosa: Victim Identified as Jessica Avila Munoz

Santa Rosa, CA – A tragic incident unfolded in Santa Rosa on Friday when a man with a history of DUI convictions allegedly caused a fatal collision. The crash claimed the life of 31-year-old Jessica Avila Munoz, according to Santa Rosa police.

The accident occurred at around 1:35 p.m. when Munoz was turning left from Lombardi Court onto eastbound Sebastopol Road. Her white Honda was struck by a Dodge pickup truck driven by 68-year-old Nhan Van Nguyen, who police say ran a red light while traveling westbound on Sebastopol Road.

The force of the collision sent Munoz’s vehicle into a third car, a Prius, whose driver fortunately escaped unharmed. Tragically, Munoz was severely injured and trapped in her vehicle. Firefighters quickly arrived at the scene to extricate her, but despite being rushed to the hospital, she later died from her injuries.

Nguyen was also taken to the hospital following the crash, although he was reportedly uninjured. Police observed signs of intoxication and conducted tests that confirmed Nguyen was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the collision. Further investigation revealed that Nguyen has four prior DUI convictions and was driving with a suspended license.

Nguyen was arrested and booked into Sonoma County Jail on charges of gross vehicular manslaughter and felony DUI causing great bodily injury. The crash prompted a six-hour closure of the intersection as police conducted a thorough investigation.

The tragic loss of Jessica Avila Munoz has left the community in mourning, with many expressing outrage over the circumstances that allowed a repeat DUI offender to be on the road. Nguyen’s history of driving under the influence has sparked renewed discussions about tougher penalties and stricter monitoring of habitual offenders.

Authorities are now urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward as the investigation continues. In the meantime, the community remembers Jessica Avila Munoz and rallies around her grieving family during this incredibly difficult time.