Erwin Queja De La Cruz died in two-vehicle crash at O’Hara Avenue

Stolen Honda fleeing police struck his car at high speed at Laurel Road

February 24, 2026 | Oakley, CA

Authorities reported a tragic incident where a stolen gray Honda sedan, occupied by juveniles, led police on a high-speed chase from Antioch into Oakley, culminating in a fatal crash that claimed the life of 50-year-old local resident Erwin Queja De La Cruz.

Erwin Queja De La Cruz, 50, died after a stolen vehicle fleeing police crashed into his car at O’Hara Avenue and Laurel Road in Oakley.

The collision occurred at the intersection of O’Hara Avenue and Laurel Road around 10:24 a.m. The vehicle, reported stolen two days prior in Oakland and containing a firearm, evaded officers until the pursuit was terminated upon entering the Oakley city limits. Despite this, the sedan continued at speeds up to 80 mph before slamming into De La Cruz's car.

What Happened in the Crash?

The sequence of the crash unfolded rapidly during the morning hours. Police from the Antioch Police Department initiated the chase after spotting the stolen Honda. As the vehicle crossed into Oakley, a second officer observed its excessive speed but also discontinued pursuit. Seconds later, the crash occurred, resulting in De La Cruz's death at the scene.

• Date and Time: Feb. 24, approximately 10:24 a.m.
• Location: O’Hara Avenue and Laurel Road, Oakley, CA
• Vehicles Involved: Gray Honda sedan, stolen, and De La Cruz's vehicle
• Occupants: Juveniles in the Honda, one boy ejected
• Injuries: De La Cruz was fatally injured, and all juveniles sustained major injuries
• Agencies Involved: Antioch Police Department and Oakley Police

The incident remains under active investigation by local authorities.

Why Do Police Pursuits Lead to Fatal Accidents?

High-speed chases, often starting from minor infractions like stolen vehicles, can escalate quickly and endanger unrelated motorists. Data from the Federal Highway Administration indicates that such pursuits contribute significantly to roadway fatalities.

These statistics underscore the risks, with pursuits frequently resulting in collisions involving innocent bystanders.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving motor vehicle crashes during pursuits, independent reviews are crucial for clarity on liability and causes.

“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 of Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline. “Time is of the essence in cases such as this, and the family of a victim must be ensured that evidence is reviewed in an efficient manner.”

Key takeaways from legal perspectives on pursuit-related incidents:

• Pursuits should balance public safety with the risks of escalation.
• Families may pursue claims for loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
• Prompt investigation preserves critical evidence like witness statements and digital records.

“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney and get the guidance needed to obtain the justice you deserve.”

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