NAPA, CA — A Napa woman was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) following a crash that left her with major injuries and claimed the lives of two of her children, authorities reported.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:20 a.m. on Thursday, when 31-year-old Yesica Barajas was driving a 2006 Nissan sedan at a high rate of speed. As Barajas exited southbound Highway 29 onto the West Imola Avenue offramp in southern Napa, the vehicle veered off the eastern edge of the road and collided with a tree.
Two children, a 10-year-old boy and a 9-year-old girl, were seated in the vehicle at the time of the crash. They were tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
Barajas, a Napa resident, sustained significant injuries in the crash and was transported to Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center for treatment. Following her medical evaluation, she was arrested on suspicion of DUI-related charges, which authorities confirmed would be finalized as the investigation continues. Barajas is expected to be booked into the Napa County Jail once she is medically cleared.
California Highway Patrol (CHP) Officer Vince Pompliano stated that the investigation is still ongoing, particularly regarding the vehicle’s speed at the time of the crash. The offramp remained closed for several hours until about noon while investigators processed the scene.
The identities of the deceased children will be released by the Napa County Coroner’s Office once their family has been notified. Authorities have expressed their condolences to the family during this difficult time.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired and reckless driving, with tragic consequences that will have a lasting impact on the affected family and community.