September 6, 2025

Stanton Man Charged with Second-Degree Murder After DUI Crash

News Summary

An Irvine man, James Anthony Deleon, has been charged with second-degree murder following a fatal DUI crash in Stanton. The incident resulted in the death of 55-year-old Hoanh Thanh Ngo and left another person injured. Deleon, who attempted to flee the scene, is being held without bail and faces multiple charges due to his prior DUI conviction. As the investigation unfolds, local authorities highlight the dangers of impaired driving.

Stanton Man Charged with Second-Degree Murder Following Fatal DUI Crash

An Irvine man, James Anthony Deleon, aged 30, has been charged with second-degree murder following a fatal crash that occurred late Friday night in Stanton. The incident, which took place around 11 p.m. near the intersection of Magnolia Avenue and Pacific Avenue, resulted in the death of 55-year-old Hoanh Thanh Ngo, also a resident of Stanton.

According to authorities, Deleon was driving a Dodge sedan that collided head-on with Ngo’s Toyota van. After the crash, Deleon attempted to flee the scene on foot but was apprehended a short distance away by law enforcement officers. Following his arrest, Deleon was booked on multiple charges, including driving under the influence (DUI), murder, and DUI causing injury.

Deleon, who has a prior conviction for DUI from the previous year, faces elevated charges due to the nature of the incident. He is currently being held in custody without bail and is scheduled for arraignment on May 22.

Details of the Incident

The crash occurred when Deleon’s vehicle collided head-on with Ngo’s Toyota van. Authorities have confirmed that the collision resulted in one fatality and left another individual injured; however, the current condition of the injured person is still unknown. The crash prompted an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, with law enforcement seeking to gather more details about the events leading up to the crash.

Legal Implications

Due to Deleon’s prior DUI conviction, the district attorney’s office has opted to pursue charges of second-degree murder, which is a more serious offense than voluntary manslaughter. This decision reflects the severity of the incident and the potential for significant consequences for Deleon if convicted. Prosecutors are expected to present a compelling case in order to hold him accountable for the fatal crash that claimed Ngo’s life.

Background Context

Driving under the influence is a serious offense that can result in severe legal penalties, including significant prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Deleon’s previous DUI conviction adds further gravity to the current charges he faces, as the legal system increasingly treats repeat offenders with harsher penalties. DUI-related incidents contribute to a tragic loss of life and pose significant risks to public safety on roadways across the nation.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with impaired driving. Local authorities emphasize the importance of responsible behavior behind the wheel, urging individuals to refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The community mourns the loss of Hoanh Thanh Ngo and grapples with the consequences of this tragic event.

As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials are working diligently to uncover the full details surrounding the crash and its aftermath. Further updates on the case will be provided as new information emerges.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER

COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.

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