Two Young Men Killed in Suspected DUI Rollover Crash on Highway 36
Note: This article is based on information from official sources and is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice.
A suspected DUI crash on a remote stretch of Highway 36 in Plumas County has claimed the lives of two young men from Butte County, serving as a tragic reminder of the fatal consequences of impaired driving.
The single-vehicle collision occurred during the late-night hours of Thursday, October 23, or early morning of Friday, October 24, 2025. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), a 2001 Lexus sedan was traveling eastbound when it left the roadway for reasons still under investigation. The vehicle then overturned several times before coming to rest down a steep, tree-lined embankment near the North Shore Campground. Tragically, both the 26-year-old driver from Oroville and his 23-year-old passenger from Magalia were pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have confirmed that alcohol is suspected to be a factor in the crash. In their statement, the CHP also noted a critical safety failure: neither of the young men was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the rollover. The difficult terrain required a complex response, including a flatbed tow truck to recover the vehicle. The CHP's investigation into the exact cause remains active.
What we can take away from this
This tragic event on a remote stretch of highway underscores several universal risks for all drivers.
- The dangers of roadway departure: This type of crash, where a vehicle leaves the paved roadway, is one of the deadliest kinds of collisions. Nationally, more than half of all traffic fatalities involve roadway departures. On mountain highways like Highway 36, which often have curves, elevation changes, and steep embankments, these incidents can be particularly severe, often involving rollovers or high-energy impacts with trees or rocks
- The critical role of seatbelts and sober driving: The CHP has explicitly linked this crash to the combination of suspected alcohol impairment and a failure to use seatbelts. These two factors dramatically increase the risk of fatal injury in a crash. This serves as a sobering reminder of the effectiveness of seatbelts and the profound danger of driving under the influence
A path forward for families
For the families and loved ones of those killed, the aftermath of such a sudden loss is overwhelming. While no amount of money can replace a loved one, California law provides avenues for seeking accountability and financial stability during an incredibly difficult time.
- Wrongful death claims: Eligible survivors, such as spouses, children, or parents, may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. This is a civil action that seeks compensation for the losses resulting from their family member's death
- Potential compensation: A successful claim can help recover damages for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and the loss of love, companionship, and guidance
- Strict time limits: It is crucial for families to be aware that in California, most wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the date of death. Furthermore, if an investigation suggests that a dangerous roadway condition contributed to the crash, any claim against a public entity must be filed much sooner, typically within six months
Protecting your rights after a loss
If you have lost a loved one in a traffic crash, taking the right steps can be essential to protecting your family's legal rights. Firstly, it is important to preserve evidence. This includes ensuring the vehicle is available for inspection by experts who can check for potential mechanical failures and obtaining the official CHP collision report.
As we always advise, before providing any statements to insurance companies, it is highly recommended to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. What you say early on can sometimes be used to limit or deny a claim later. Navigating the legal process while grieving is an immense burden. An attorney can handle the complex investigation, deal with insurance companies, and ensure all claims are filed within the strict legal deadlines, allowing families to focus on healing.
Our deepest condolences go out to the families and communities affected by this heartbreaking event on Highway 36.
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