Elderly Woman Killed in DUI Crash in Huntington Beach

News Summary

An 85-year-old woman named Caryl Margulies has died after being struck by a vehicle in a DUI-related incident in Huntington Beach. The crash occurred while she was walking, and the driver, a 62-year-old man, has been arrested on suspicion of DUI. Margulies, who suffered from dementia and had been reported missing, was found unconscious and later pronounced dead at the hospital. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging witnesses to come forward to help with the case.

Huntington Beach

An 85-year-old woman has been identified as the victim in a fatal DUI crash that occurred on July 12, 2025, near Brookhurst Street and Crailet Drive in Huntington Beach. The woman, Caryl Margulies, suffered injuries that led to her death following the incident.

The crash happened around 6 p.m. when Margulies was struck by a white Toyota RAV4 while she was walking in the area. Emergency responders arrived on the scene and found her unconscious, lying on the roadway. Margulies was subsequently transported to a nearby hospital where she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Prior to the collision, Caryl Margulies had been reported missing, and it has been noted that she was suffering from dementia. Her condition may have contributed to her vulnerability at the time of the accident.

The driver of the Toyota RAV4, a 62-year-old man from Costa Mesa, was present at the scene of the accident and has been cooperative with law enforcement officials. He has since been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI), with authorities indicating that impairment was a likely factor in the crash.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is currently ongoing, and as of now, no additional details have been released by the police. Investigators continue to gather information regarding the incident.

Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has relevant information to come forward. Witnesses can contact HBP Investigator C. Houlston at 714-536-5559.

Background

Huntington Beach has been marked by a number of incidents related to DUI in the past few years, raising concerns about road safety and impaired driving. According to statistics from law enforcement agencies, DUI incidents contribute significantly to fatal traffic accidents, emphasizing the need for community awareness and responsibility among drivers.

Caryl Margulies’ tragic death highlights not only the dangers of impaired driving but also the vulnerabilities faced by the elderly, especially those with health conditions such as dementia. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of looking out for vulnerable individuals in our communities.

As the investigation unfolds, residents are invited to play an active role in fostering a safer environment by being vigilant and reporting any suspicious or dangerous behavior that could potentially lead to tragedies on the road.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Lawsuit Filed by Former Costa Mesa City Manager
Woman Struck and Killed in Huntington Beach Incident
13-Year-Old Arrested for Causing Rancho Fire in Laguna Beach
21-Year-Old Arrested for DUI After Fatal Pedestrian Accident
Huntington Beach Man Arrested for DUI in Fatal Pedestrian Accident
Fullerton Man Sentenced for Shooting Incident in Santa Ana
Laguna Hills Teen Arrested for Felony Hit-and-Run
Police Sergeant Charged in Fatal DUI Hit-and-Run in Tustin
Vehicle Crash Ignites Fire at Costa Mesa Clothing Store
Fatal Crash in Police Pursuit Claims Young Life

Additional Resources

Author: HERE Costa Mesa

HERE Costa Mesa

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