Alleged DUI Driver Hits, Kills Pedestrian in Newport Beach

Police arrest two suspects, including driver on suspicion of DUI, after fatal crash

Mar. 2, 2026 at 9:31pm

A 26-year-old man from Adelanto, California has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after allegedly hitting and killing a pedestrian in Newport Beach early Sunday morning. The victim's identity has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin. A passenger in the vehicle, a 26-year-old woman from Adelanto, was also arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct.

Why it matters

Impaired driving continues to be a major public safety issue, with fatal crashes involving alcohol or drugs occurring far too frequently. This incident highlights the tragic consequences that can result from reckless driving behavior and the importance of cracking down on DUI offenses to protect vulnerable road users like pedestrians.

The details

According to the Newport Beach Police Department, officers responded to the area of Newport Boulevard and 24th Street around 2:02 a.m. after reports of a collision. Upon arrival, they found a man who was later pronounced dead at the scene. Investigations revealed that the driver of a Chevrolet Corvette, identified as 26-year-old Jesus Alvarez of Adelanto, had hit the pedestrian and then fled the scene. Alvarez was later found by authorities nearby and arrested on suspicion of DUI. A passenger in the vehicle, 26-year-old Ashley Guerrero, also of Adelanto, was arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct.

  • The incident occurred around 2:02 a.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

The players

Jesus Alvarez

A 26-year-old man from Adelanto, California who was arrested on suspicion of DUI after allegedly hitting and killing a pedestrian in Newport Beach.

Ashley Guerrero

A 26-year-old woman from Adelanto, California who was a passenger in the vehicle driven by Jesus Alvarez and was arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct.

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What’s next

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and police have not yet released the identity of the deceased pedestrian. The judge will determine whether to grant bail for Jesus Alvarez.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need to combat impaired driving and protect vulnerable road users. It serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences that can result from reckless behavior behind the wheel, and highlights the importance of strengthening DUI enforcement and education efforts to prevent such senseless loss of life.