San Diego, CA – Passenger Killed When Car Plunges into I-5 Aqueduct

A tragic crash on Sunday, February 16, resulted in the death of a young woman after the vehicle in which she was riding swerved off Interstate 5 and plummeted into the California Aqueduct. 

While the driver, a man from San Diego County, managed to escape, his passenger wasn’t able to get out before the car became fully submerged. The accident raises concerns about the hazards of driving at night and how important it is to stay alert on California’s highways.

A report issued by the California Highway Patrol shows that the collision took place at about 1:00 a.m. The driver, who has since been identified as Adrian Rodriguez-Chavira, a 32-year-old resident of Chula Vista, was traveling southbound on I-5 near State Route 41 when, for reasons yet to be determined, he lost control of his 2019 Honda Accord. The vehicle swerved off the highway and fell into the chilly aqueduct waters, quickly disappearing beneath the surface.

Rodriguez-Chavira was able to extricate himself from the sinking vehicle and swim to shore. Unfortunately, his passenger, a 24-year-old female, remained trapped inside the car as it slowly submerged. Emergency responders, including a dive team, were eventually able to recover the woman’s body. Authorities are withholding her name until her family has been notified.

Investigators have confirmed that alcohol or drugs were not factors in the incident, but they are still working to determine what caused Rodriguez-Chavira to lose control. He sustained minor injuries in the incident but refused on-scene medical treatment.

This heartbreaking accident highlights the unique dangers associated with driving late at night. Reduced visibility, driver fatigue, and unexpected roadway conditions can increase the likelihood of losing control. Additionally, the presence of canals and aqueducts along highways presents a serious risk in off-road accidents, as escaping from a submerged vehicle is often extremely difficult.

Authorities urge drivers to remain cautious, especially when traveling at night. Whether the cause is distraction, drowsiness, or an unforeseen mechanical issue, maintaining focus and control of a vehicle is essential to preventing similar tragedies.

While investigators work to piece together the events leading to this fatal accident, the loss serves as a sobering reminder of how crucial it is to prioritize safety on the road.