Maria Ortiz of San Francisco Dies in DUI Accident on Rice Road [Stanislaus County, CA]

Stanislaus County, CA (September 21, 2021) – On Saturday,  81-year-old Maria Ortiz of San Francisco dies, while 22-year-old Mariana Guzman of Hayward suffered injuries in a DUI accident on Rice Road.

The fatal incident took place at about 10:50 p.m. south on McGee Avenue.

The California Highway Patrol said that 51-year-old Anna Canales de Guzman was driving a Toyota Camry with four passengers. 

The driver attempted to turn west on Rice Road, however, she made an unsafe turning movement. The Toyota left the roadway and entered the canal. 

Unfortunately, the vehicle became submerged. 

Responding officers got the occupants out of the canal. 

Immediately, rescuers took Ortiz, the right front seat passenger to Memorial Medical Center, where she died. 

The Coroner’s Office has not identified her cause of death but she does not have obvious signs of physical injury.

Another passenger, Guzman, sustained minor injuries.

Canales de Guzman and two of her passengers, all from Hayward, did not suffer injuries from the accident. 

Meanwhile, officers are still investigating the cause of the accident but the CHP has ruled out drugs and alcohol.

---

Sweet Lawyers is extending our deepest sympathies to the loved ones of Maria Ortiz. Our hearts are with you through these trying times. 

---

Coping With the Loss

In a time where an unexpected tragedy befalls such as this one, you may be left feeling truly devastating.

“The last thing most families want to deal with is piles of paperwork. Questions from insurance companies or defense attorneys and attempting to obtain police reports can be stressful,” says Mark Sweet, a seasoned attorney at Sweet Lawyers.
 
Having legal representation after such a traumatic event will provide your family with the space to heal. Indeed, they will make sure you get justice for your loved one.
 
“Our firm works tirelessly to ensure that the people we work for are granted the highest restitution possible. Although nothing can bring back those dearly departed, we strive to secure the future of our clients, protecting them from further losses,” explains Mark Sweet.
 
If someone you love died in a similar crash, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. Work with Sweet Lawyers. We guarantee that you will be provided with personalized assistance, aggressive representation, and compassion throughout the entire process.

We do more than simply win cases; our purpose is to maximize your recovery and grant you peace of mind, with your future at the forefront. During your initial call, we’ll discuss your case at length to determine your legal options.

In addition, you won’t pay a dime in retainer or holding fees over this case. Call (800) 674 7852 for a free consultation.