David Brian Chance and Mariah Garcia Killed in DUI Crash on State Route 62 [Desert Center, CA]

Double Fatality in Suspected DUI Accident near State Route 177

DESERT CENTER, CA (June 29, 2018) – Two people were killed Friday evening following an incident involving a suspected drunk driver, near State Route 177.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision took place shortly before 9:30 PM. A red Dodge Ram was heading westbound on State Route 62 when an eastbound white Dodge Ram drifted into its path. The two vehicles collided head-on, and the impact resulted in a double fatality.

57-year-old Banning resident David Brian Chance, the driver and the sole occupant of the red Dodge Ram, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger inside the white pickup truck, 20-year-old Mariah Garcia of Anza, was also pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.

The driver of the white Dodge Ram, identified as 19-year-old Austin Bly Ellington, and a second passenger were flown to the Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs after sustaining major injuries.

Ellington was later arrested and charged with two counts of DUI gross vehicular manslaughter and six counts of DUI causing injury. Riverside County Superior Court Judge Dean Benjamini set the bail at $220,000. No additional information has been revealed to the public at this time.

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We offer our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved loved ones of David Brian Chance and Mariah Garcia. Wishing their loved ones strength and support during this very difficult time. May they both rest in peace.

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If you have suddenly lost a loved one in a serious traffic collision caused by the irresponsible actions of a driver under the influence, reach out to the experienced lawyers at Sweet Law Group. We have over 40 years of experience in the legal field, and we will fight to achieve the justice and compensation that you and your family deserve. Our attorneys and experienced professional legal team have dealt with cases including car accidents, wrongful death, personal injury, and disability. Call our offices at (800) 203-3061 for a free consultation with a professional in your area. For your convenience, we can also be contacted 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week by email, online chat, and text message.