Raulder Sotelo dies in head-on crash on 215 Freeway in Riverside

Wrong-way driver struck Toyota Camry near Cactus Avenue exit

January 14, 2026 | Riverside, CA

Riverside authorities reported a fatal crash on the 215 Freeway early Wednesday morning, where a wrong-way driver suspected of DUI caused a deadly head-on collision.

Raulder Sotelo, 32, of Riverside died at the scene when his Toyota Camry collided head-on with a wrong-way silver Mitsubishi Galant on the 215 Freeway near the Cactus Avenue exit.

Raulder Sotelo, a 32-year-old Riverside resident, lost his life in the incident. The crash occurred around 12:15 a.m. when a silver Mitsubishi Galant, operated by a 20-year-old from Moreno Valley, entered the southbound lanes traveling northbound near the Cactus Avenue exit. The vehicle struck Sotelo's Toyota Camry directly, resulting in his immediate death at the scene. The Mitsubishi driver sustained major injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital.

Investigators continue to examine the circumstances, with no charges announced yet. 

Key details of the crash include:

• Date and Time: Jan. 14, approximately 12:15 a.m.
• Location: 215 Freeway near Cactus Avenue exit, Riverside
• Vehicles Involved: Silver Mitsubishi Galant, wrong-way, and Toyota Camry, victim's vehicle
• Outcome: One fatality, Raulder Sotelo— one driver hospitalized with major injuries
• Suspected Cause: Driving under the influence

What Happened in the Crash?

The collision unfolded when the northbound wrong-way vehicle met Sotelo's southbound Camry in a devastating frontal crash. Emergency responders arrived swiftly but could not save Sotelo, who was pronounced dead on site. The at-fault driver received immediate medical attention for serious injuries.

Why Do Wrong-Way Crashes Occur?

Wrong-way incidents often stem from impaired driving, disorientation at exits, or signage issues. In this case, authorities suspect alcohol or drugs played a role, heightening the dangers on busy freeways like the 215.

Crash Statistics Overview

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), impaired driving contributes to thousands of fatalities annually. Below is a summary of key data from 2012 to 2021:

These figures underscore the persistent threat of DUI-related accidents across U.S. roadways.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts provide perspective on handling cases involving impaired drivers and fatal collisions.

“Drunken and drugged drivers face criminal charges after accidents that harm or kill others,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “In cases such as this, families of victims may seek compensation via civil lawsuits against the at-fault party.”

Key takeaways from such analyses include:

• Independent investigations often reveal blood-alcohol levels and other factors.
• Civil actions can cover medical costs, lost companionship, and emotional distress.
• Attorneys assist in navigating legal processes compassionately.

“A wrongful death occurs when negligence leads to a fatality,” noted Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “For crashes due to unsafe, aggressive, or impaired driving, families typically pursue civil remedies against the responsible driver.”

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