Victor Garay Jr. Killed in DUI Crash on Highway 99 in Bakersfield

Efrain Echevarria Arrested in Fatal DUI Crash on Highway 99 at Palm Street

 
BAKERSFIELD, CA (May 16, 2019) – A man was killed following a DUI crash late Thursday evening on Highway 99 in Bakersfield.
 
The Kern County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as a 30-year-old Victor Hugo Garay Jr. He was a passenger in a Honda Civic that overturned around 11:00 p.m. on southbound Highway 99, just North of Palm Street.
 
According to the CHP, the Honda was traveling at high speeds and the driver was intoxicated. The driver made an unsafe turn and struck a dirt embankment. The car overturned then and landed on its roof.
 
Garay suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
 
The driver, a 22-year-old Efrain Echevarria, was hospitalized for minor injuries. He was later taken into custody on felony DUI and gross vehicular manslaughter. He was also arrested on three other outstanding warrants.
 
He’s expected in court for an arraignment on Monday, May 20 at 3:00 p.m.
 
Both Echevarria and Garay were wearing their seat belts, according to the CHP.
 
This fatal crash is still under investigation.

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During this mournful time, we would like to send our well-wishes and sincere sympathies to the grieving family and friends of Victor Garay Jr.

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If you have lost a loved one in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, do not hesitate to contact The Sweet Lawyers today. We house experienced wrongful death attorneys who have been recovering full and fair compensation for accident victims and bereaved families for over 45 years. We will provide you with the support and top notch service needed to help you recover both financially and emotionally. Call us today at (800) 674 7852 for a free evaluation of your case details.