Suspected drunk-driving pickup hits father and 8-year-old son in parking lot
November 03, 2025 | Bakersfield, CA
An 8-year-old boy suffered life-threatening injuries after a suspected drunk driver crashed through a fence and struck him and his father in East Bakersfield on November 3.
Authorities arrested 33-year-old Andres Serna in connection with the collision that left the child in critical condition at a local hospital.
Andres Serna, 33, drove a pickup into a parking lot, injuring a father and critically wounding his 8-year-old son in East Bakersfield.
What Happened in the Crash?
The incident unfolded around 12:09 p.m. in the 1400 block of East California Avenue near Haley Street. According to the Bakersfield Police Department, Serna was driving a pickup truck westbound when he lost control, veered off the road, and plowed through a fence into a parking lot where a food truck was operating.
- Date and Time: November 3, 2025, approximately 12:09 p.m.
- Location: 1400 block of East California Avenue, East Bakersfield
- Vehicle Involved: Pickup truck driven by Andres Serna, 33
- Victims: 8-year-old boy, critical injuries, his father, moderate injuries
- Suspect: Andres Serna, arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence
- Outcome: Both victims transported to a local hospital, investigation ongoing
Police determined Serna was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. He was taken into custody shortly after the incident. Authorities encourage anyone with additional information to contact the Bakersfield Police Department at 661-327-7111.
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Drunk driving remains a leading cause of preventable tragedies on U.S. roadways, often stemming from impaired judgment and slowed reaction times. Despite awareness campaigns and strict laws, alcohol-impaired crashes continue to devastate families.
Key Statistics on Drunk Driving Crashes
To underscore the national scope of this issue, the following table summarizes data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for 2023:
Statistic |
Value |
Source |
|---|
Total alcohol-impaired driving fatalities |
12,429 |
NHTSA |
Average daily deaths from drunk driving |
About 34 |
NHTSA |
Frequency of fatal drunk driving crashes |
One every 42 minutes |
NHTSA |
Percentage of total traffic fatalities involving alcohol |
31% |
NHTSA |
Drivers with BAC = 0.08 g/dL in fatal crashes |
84% of alcohol-positive drivers |
NHTSA |
These figures highlight the urgent need for continued enforcement and education.
Expert Insights
National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in motor vehicle crashes involving suspected impairment. Their expertise provides valuable perspective on pursuing justice in such cases.
“In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal.
Key Takeaways from Analyst Insights:
- Time is critical in gathering evidence to support claims in impairment-related collisions.
- Independent reviews can uncover details missed in initial reports.
- Victims may pursue personal injury claims to seek fair compensation for medical costs and other losses.
“It is vital for victims to hire an attorney when filing a personal injury claim, which allows them to negotiate with an insurance company on behalf of a client,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”
Pending investigation results, those affected in this crash may explore legal options.
Newsline, the premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., upholds unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence in reporting such stories. Our rigorous editorial standards ensure accurate, timely coverage of public safety issues.
Newsline strives for 100% accuracy in public safety reporting. Spot an error? Submit feedback via our Corrections Form. We review submissions within 24 hours, as outlined in our Corrections Policy.
Interested in reaching our engaged audience? Advertise with Newsline.
(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)
Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.
Have you experienced a similar accident and need guidance? Contact national legal analyst Candice Bond at Newsline for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).