[02-09-2026] Los Angeles County – Family Devastated After Mother and Father Killed in Santa Clarita DUI Crash

Los Angeles, California – Two adults were killed and a third family member was seriously injured in a suspected DUI crash Friday night in Santa Clarita, according to authorities. 

The collision occurred at approximately 11:15 p.m. near the intersection of Newhall Canyon Road and Bouquet Canyon Road. Investigators say a vehicle carrying a married couple and their 25-year-old daughter was struck by another driver as they were traveling through the area. 

Officials reported that one of the parents was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other died after being transported to a hospital. The daughter survived the crash and remains hospitalized with significant injuries. 

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Santa Clarita Station said deputies conducted a breath test on the other motorist involved. That driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. No additional identifying information has been released, and the investigation remains ongoing. 

A fundraising campaign has been created by relatives to assist with funeral and medical expenses. Authorities have not announced any additional charges or timelines related to the case. 

Source: ABC7 

Who Is Entitled to File a Wrongful Death Claim When Both Parents Die in a DUI Accident? 

When both parents die in a DUI accident in California, the people entitled to file a wrongful death claim are defined by state law and typically start with the closest surviving family members. In most cases, the children of the deceased have the first right to bring a claim. If there are no surviving children, eligibility may pass to other heirs, such as grandchildren, surviving siblings, or other relatives who would inherit under intestate succession rules. In some situations, financially dependent individuals — such as a stepchild or dependent minor living in the household — may also qualify to file or join the claim. 

A wrongful death case allows eligible family members to seek compensation for losses such as funeral and burial expenses, lost financial support, and loss of companionship and guidance. Because DUI crashes often involve criminal proceedings as well as civil liability, families commonly work with a Los Angeles car accident lawyer and a Los Angeles wrongful death attorney to coordinate the civil claim while the criminal case moves forward. A qualified personal injury attorney Los Angeles can evaluate who has standing to file and ensure deadlines and procedural requirements are met. 

Call J&Y Law at (877) 718-5027 for a free consultation about your wrongful death claim and your legal options.