Full Notification

For Immediate Release                                                                 
Sunday, July 30, 2023 
Issued By: Sergeant Mario Giomi, Petaluma PD, 707.778.4372

Incident:                   DUI Driver Arrested After Collision
Report Number:       23-3306
Occurred Date :       July 29, 2023
Occurred Time:        11:23 p.m.
Location:                  Lakeville Hwy at Baywood Dr   
Suspects:                 Miguel Cruz Lopez (28, Petaluma)
Charges:                  Felony Driving Under the Influence (23153 CVC) 
                                Felony Hit and Run Vehicle Collision (20001 CVC)
                       

 
On Saturday, July 29, 2023, at approximately 11:23 p.m., officers from the Petaluma Police Department were dispatched to the intersection of Lakeville Hwy and Baywood Drive on report of a collision involving three vehicles.   
 
Upon arrival, officers contacted involved parties and learned that Cruz Lopez had rearended a vehicle at the intersection of Lakeville Hwy and Marina Ave and fled the scene.  As he was fleeing, Cruz Lopez, rearended another vehicle at the intersection of Lakeville Hwy and Baywood Dr.  The drivers of both vehicles had complaint of pain due to the collisions.
 
Upon contact, Cruz Lopez had objective signs of alcohol intoxication and showed impairment while performing field sobriety tests.  At the conclusion of the investigation, the officer determined Cruz Lopez was operating the vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and placed him under arrest. It was later learned that Cruz Lopez had a blood alcohol content of approximately 3 times the legal limit. Cruz Lopez was transported to the Sonoma County Jail where he was booked on the associated charges.    
 
The Petaluma Police Department has been committed to increasing traffic safety, especially reducing the number of alcohol-related collisions. Petaluma Police advise motorist to plan ahead if you’re going to go out and drink alcohol, designate a sober driver or share a ride.  Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
 
Media inquiries maybe directed to Lieutenant Garrett Glaviano at [email protected] or phone 707-778-4372. PPD Case 23-3181.