[01-24-2026] Monterey County, CA – Passenger Killed, Driver Faces Felony DUI Charges After Rollover Crash East of Soledad

A Gonzales man was killed and another man faces felony DUI charges following a rollover crash east of Soledad in Monterey County, late Saturday night, January 24, 2026.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the driver and passenger were traveling on Metz Road Highway 146 south of Stonewall Canyon Road when the vehicle went off the roadway and rolled over at an unknown speed. 

Investigators said the passenger, identified by CHP dispatch as 22-year-old Nathan R., was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver was identified as 24-year-old Octavio H. of Gonzales. Authorities said Octavio sustained minor injuries and was transported to Natividad Medical Center. He is facing felony DUI charges.

The crash remains under investigation by the CHP.

What A Lawyer Can Do For You

Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.