Alyssa Roman Killed in DUI Crash on Highway 1 [Santa Cruz, CA]

DUI Accident Kills Alyssa Roman, Richard Quihuis Jr. Arrested on Highway 1

SANTA CRUZ, CA (April 20, 2021) – Wednesday morning, 19-year-old Alyssa Roman of San Jose, was killed in a DUI crash on Highway 1.

The crash occurred near the Morrissey Boulevard exit around 1:47 A.M., when a 2004 Toyota Camry was driving at a high rate of speed.

Per reports, Quihuis attempted to exit on Morrissey Boulevard, and struck a concrete curb. As a result, the vehicle proceeded forward and struck a metal guardrail, causing the Toyota to catch fire.

The driver, later identified as 19-year-old Richard Quihuis Jr. attempted to flee the scene. After a short pursuit on foot, CHP arrested Quihuis Jr. He allegedly received minor injuries in the crash.

Meanwhile, CHP extracted the three remaining passengers from inside the Toyota. The two backseat occupants sustained minor injuries, and are expected to survive.

Responding crews pronounced the passenger seat occupant, Alyssa Roman, dead at the scene of the crash.

Officers charged Quihuis with felony DUI, gross vehicular manslaughter while under the influence, felony hit-and-run and felony evading an officer.

Once available, more information will be released.

We at Sweet James would like to extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Alyssa Roman.

If you have been injured in a DUI crash, reach out to Sweet James as soon as possible. It is our goal to provide you the highest quality of legal representation. All of us at Sweet James dedicate our experience and expertise to help you obtain both justice and maximum settlement. Our personal injury attorneys will fight by your side and get what you rightfully deserve. Call us today at (800) 975-3435 to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation with an experienced legal professional in your area. Click here to request a police report.