A multi-vehicle crash on Tuesday resulted in one fatality, multiple injuries and the arrest of a driver suspected of driving under the influence of drugs. The incident occurred around 7:47 a.m. on Highway 36 eastbound, just west of US Highway 395.
WILLIAM ROBERT DOUGHERTY was arraigned on January 15th on a complaint alleging second-degree murder, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and DUI causing injury with a great bodily injury enhancement. It is further alleged the defendant has previously been convicted of DUI.
The prosecution informed the court that leave will be sought to file an amended charging document to reflect additional injured parties that the District Attorney became aware of after the charging document was filed. We encourage all parties directly affected by this tragic event to contact our Victim Services division.
The defendant has pleaded not guilty to these charges and the next court date is for February 19, 2025. The Hon. Robert M. Burns made a finding that there was no least restrictive means to keep the community safe or ensure the defendant’s presence at future court appearances and therefore ordered the defendant be held without bail.
This investigation is ongoing and we are working diligently with the California Highway Patrol. We are limited by law in providing further information about the case during its pendency other than what is properly a matter of public record.
These charges are not evidence, only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until pled or proven guilty.
