Juan Chavez dies in single-vehicle DUI crash on Stony Point Road

Impaired driver loses control on curve, sending Chevrolet Tahoe off the road near West Sierra Avenue

November 13, 2025 | Cotati, CA

A tragic incident unfolded late Thursday when a suspected impaired driver lost control of her Chevrolet Tahoe, leading to the death of passenger Juan Chavez, 26, from Petaluma. 

Authorities from the California Highway Patrol's Santa Rosa office are leading the probe into this devastating event.

Juan Chavez, 26, of Petaluma, died at the scene when a Chevrolet Tahoe struck a tree in a single-vehicle DUI crash on Stony Point Road near West Sierra Avenue.

What Happened in the Crash?

The Chevrolet Tahoe was traveling south on Stony Point Road near West Sierra Avenue around 11:25 p.m. The vehicle veered off the roadway on a sharp curve before colliding with a tree. Key details include:

• Victim: Juan Chavez, 26, of Petaluma, pronounced dead at the scene.
• Driver: A Petaluma woman suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol hospitalized with injuries and expected to face charges.
• Location: Stony Point Road near West Sierra Avenue, Cotati area.
• Time: Approximately 11:25 p.m. Thursday.
• Vehicle: Chevrolet Tahoe.

A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist Chavez's family with funeral costs and other expenses.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatal crashes nationwide. Factors such as alcohol consumption can severely impair judgment, reaction times, and vehicle control, especially on curved roads. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol-impaired driving contributed to over 10,000 deaths annually from 2012 to 2021.

This table highlights the persistent danger, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and enforcement.

Legal Insights

Newsline's national legal analysts provide perspective on incidents involving impaired drivers.

“In cases such as this, where impaired driving leads to loss of life, criminal charges are often pursued against the at-fault party,” noted Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “Families may also seek civil remedies to address the profound impacts of such negligence.”

Key takeaways from analyst insights:

• Independent investigations are crucial to assess blood-alcohol levels and other contributing factors.
• Impaired drivers face severe legal consequences, including potential jail time and license revocation.
• Civil actions can help families recover compensation for medical, funeral, and emotional losses.

Potential Wrongful Death Claims

For families affected by such tragedies, a wrongful death claim may cover expenses like medical bills, funeral costs, and non-economic damages such as loss of companionship.

“Negligent acts, including driving under the influence, that result in fatalities open avenues for civil lawsuits against the responsible individual,” explained Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.

These claims emphasize accountability and support for grieving families.

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