Maricela Elizabeth Dias Arrested after Wrong-Way Crash Kills a Man

SAN DIEGO, CA (September 5, 2022) – Early Friday morning, a DUI crash on State Route 52 claimed the life of Roberto Mendez Sanchez.

The fatal incident occurred on August 26th, just after 2:30 a.m. in the westbound lanes of State Route 52, near Interstate 805.

According to initial reports, an eastbound Chevrolet pickup collided head-on with a westbound vehicle in the westbound lanes. The westbound vehicle driver, 49-year-old Mendez Sanchez of El Cajon, died at the scene.

Afterward, medics transported the Chevrolet driver, 23-year-old Maricela Diaz, to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Police later arrested Diaz on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Meanwhile, Diaz pleaded not guilty to charges that included gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated on Friday. At this time, she is being held in county jail for $100,000 bail.


No words can mend the broken hearts and sorrow felt during this delicate moment. Our deepest condolences and sympathies are with the family and friends of Roberto Mendez Sanchez.


It is important to have strong legal representation on your side when losing a loved one in a DUI crash. Reach out to the wrongful death lawyers at Sweet James today. With 20 years of experience in the field, they know what it takes to help you win your case. Their team understands that nothing can alleviate the emotional pain of a death of a loved one, but they can help you seek justice and compensation. Call their office at (800) 975-3435 for a free and confidential case evaluation. Additionally, you can reach them 24 hours a day and 7 days a week through email, text, and online chat. Click here to request a police report.

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