Three drunk drivers impede fatal DUI crash investigation

A tragic incident occurred at the intersection of Panama Lane and Stine Road in Bakersfield, where a collision involving a suspected drunk driver claimed the life of a young woman in her twenties. The crash took place at 1:20 am, involving a car traveling westbound on Panama Lane colliding with a car heading south on Stine Road. Tragically, the young woman, a passenger in the southbound vehicle, was ejected and tragically passed away at the scene. Authorities have not disclosed if she was wearing a seatbelt. The driver of that vehicle sustained life-threatening injuries. While speed and alcohol are believed to have played a role in the accident, it is yet to be confirmed which driver was suspected of drinking and speeding. Moreover, the chaos continued at the crash site, with two additional drivers found to be driving under the influence. Matt Clark, a Kern Advisory Board member for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), highlights the alarming frequency of DUI incidents in Kern County, citing statistics from recent years. Clark emphasizes the urgency of addressing this ongoing issue, especially in light of the recent fatal crash. He stresses the importance of reporting suspected impaired drivers by calling 911.