FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 20, 2025
CHP Antelope Valley Investigates Fatal DUI-Related Traffic Crash
On October 19, 2025, at approximately 12:07 a.m., officers from the California Highway Patrol, Antelope Valley Area, responded to a fatal traffic collision on Sierra Highway, south of Avenue E.
Preliminary investigation determined a 1999 Chevrolet, driven by 29-year-old M. Gonzalez of Palmdale, was traveling southbound on Sierra Highway. A 2018 Hyundai, driven by 47-year-old M. Cardaropoli of Rosamond, was traveling northbound on Sierra Highway in the opposite direction. Witnesses reported the Chevrolet had drifted into the opposing traffic lane more than once before it collided head-on with the Hyundai.
Tragically, Ms. Cardaropoli succumbed to her injuries sustained from the crash, and she was pronounced deceased at the scene. Mr. Gonzalez sustained major injuries and was transported to Antelope Valley Medical Center for treatment.
Mr. Gonzalez was later arrested on suspicion of felony driving under the influence and gross vehicular manslaughter, as his suspected impairment is considered a primary factor in this collision. The California Highway Patrol reminds all motorists of the dangers and serious consequences of impaired driving. The CHP is committed to ensuring the safety of the motoring public and will continue to aggressively seek out and remove impaired drivers from the roadway.
Traffic in the area was affected for approximately three hours, while officers conducted on-scene investigation. Both drivers were determined to be wearing seatbelts at the time of the collision.
Next of kin have been notified. Should additional information regarding the decedent be sought, please contact the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office at (323) 343-0512.
The CHP urges anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the CHP Antelope Valley Area office at (661) 743-6060. After business hours, please contact the Los Angeles Traffic Management Center at (323) 259-3200