Hollister
– The California Highway Patrol is investigating a two-vehicle
drunken driving crash that injured three early Sunday morning.
Hollister – The California Highway Patrol is investigating a two-vehicle drunken driving crash that injured three early Sunday morning.
The head-on collision occurred just south of Highway 156 on Highway 25 about 4:45am Sunday, the CHP said.
Phillip A. Muniz Jr., 18, of Gilroy was arrested on felony driving under the influence charges, and was recovering in a San Jose hospital because of severe injuries.
The crash occurred after a red 1999 Pontiac Grand Am driven by Muniz crossed the median into the northbound lane. His car struck the second vehicle, a white 2004 Saturn Vue driven by 25-year-old Hollister resident Rebecca L. Dattilo.
Both drivers suffered serious injuries and were taken by helicopter to nearby hospitals, said CHP Officer Chris Armstrong. Martin J. Flores, 18, the passenger in Muniz’ car suffered minor injuries and was also taken to the hospital.
Both the Hollister Fire Department and California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection responded.
Both cars were crushed because of the force of the impact, said Fire Capt. Bob Martin Del Campo, who was at the scene. Because of the severity of the damage to the cars, both drivers had to be cut out.
Muniz suffered major leg injuries, including fractures and dislocation, and cuts to his face. He was flown by helicopter to San Jose Regional Hospital. The hospital could not confirm his injuries or status Monday, but officials said Muniz had not yet been discharged as of press time.
The passenger in the Pontiac Grand Am, Flores, suffered cuts and bruising and was taken to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center. He was wearing his seat belt, according to the CHP. As of Monday afternoon he was in good condition, but had not yet been discharged said VMC spokesperson Joy Alexiou.
Dattilo suffered leg injuries, including multiple fractures and dislocation. She was taken by helicopter to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, where she is in fair condition, said Alexiou.
Alice Joy covers education for the Free Lance. She can be reached at 831-637-5566 ext. 336 or at aj**@***********ws.com.
